Former Tripura Ranji team cricketer Rajesh Banik passed away on Friday night after a freak road accident. He was rushed to the GB Pant hospital, Agartala where he was declared dead on arrival, said sources. It has been learnt that a chaos erupted between the hospital authorities and the family members for performing the post mortem. However, the matter was resolved.

The mortal remains of the cricketer had been brought to Tripura Cricket Association office where the office bearers and sports enthusiasts paid their final tributes to the cricketer. Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Tripura Cricket Association Subrata Dey said, “He had been a very bright cricketer all his life. He was also discharging his responsibility as a selector for the junior team for us. This incident has cast shadow of grief over the whole cricketing fraternity.”

Sports enthusiast and patron of Tripura Football Association Ratan Saha said, “I am extremely saddened by his untimely demise.” According to sources, Rajesh Banik was a talented cricketer. He represented India in the Under 15 world cup. He played for Tripura in under 19, under 23 and elite first class cricket. He also headed the Tripura Cricket Team in Ranji Trophy. He is survived by his elderly mother.