Former Warwickshire fast bowler Tom Allin, aged 28, has passed away. The news of his passing was announced by his county, although the police are yet to confirm the cause of his death.
In a statement, the county said: “Everyone at Edgbaston is immensely saddened by the news that former Warwickshire Fast Bowler Tom Allin has died. Tom was an incredibly popular member of the professional squad during his six years with Warwickshire, and he made one First Class and one List A appearance before returning to his native Devon at the end of the 2013 season.
Before adding: “The thoughts of all at Warwickshire County Cricket Club are with Tom’s family and friends, and we would ask that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.”
It is reported that the 28-year-old fell to his death from a bridge in Devon. He was confirmed dead by paramedics who came to the Torridge Bridge in Bideford, where his body was found.
Devon and Cornwall police said the death wasn't suspicious and that the case has been referred to the coroner. A spokesman said: "Police are not conducting a criminal investigation into this incident.
“The male was believed to be well known to the local community of North Devon. Emergency services were quickly on the scene however, attempts to resuscitate the male were unsuccessful."
Allin made his first-class debut for Warwickshire against Middlesex at Edgbaston in May 2013 but made his List-A debut for the county two years earlier against Surrey. He left the county in 2013, to represent his hometown of Devon.
Following the death of Sussex fast bowler Matthew Hobden, aged 22, Allin becomes the second cricketer to die in the space of a few days.
Mark Ansell, chairman of Allin's league cricket club North Devon CC, said: "Everyone at the club is devastated by the news of Tom's death. He was a great guy and this has come as such a shock. The players at the club are numbed by what has happened. They met up on Tuesday night to support each other."
Professional Cricketers' Association assistant chief executive Jason Ratcliffe, said in a statement: "We are saddened to learn of Tom Allin's death. He was a popular member of the playing staff at Warwickshire and a valued member of the PCA.
"Our condolences go to Tom's family, particularly his father Tony who is also a PCA member from his own playing career with Glamorgan in 1976. We also extend our sympathy to North Devon Cricket Club, Tom's home club. The PCA will offer support to Tom's family and former team-mates at this difficult time.”
England women’s cricket team’s vice-captain, Heather Knight was one of many to send in their condolences on Twitter.
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