Scotland spinner Con de Lange dies aged 38
Scotland left-arm spinner Con de Lange passed away on Thursday, aged 38. It was revealed last year that de Lange, who also played for Northamptonshire, had been diagnosed with a brain tumour.
In October 2018, Cricket Scotland had launched a fund-raising appeal for de Lange, who had undergone many forms of medical treatment, including an operation, radiation and chemotherapy, in an effort to battle the illness.
His last appearance for Scotland came in 2017, in an ODI series against Papua New Guinea in the UAE, when he was also the vice-captain of the squad. Overall, de Lange, who was born in Cape Province in South Africa, played 13 ODIs and eight T20Is between June 2015 and November 2017. His only five-for in ODIs came in a memorable win for Scotland against Zimbabwe, the side's first ODI victory against a Full Member.
Prior to playing for Scotland, de Lange played first-class cricket for Boland, Cape Cobras, Eagles and Free State in the South African domestic circuit, before a short county stint with Northamptonshire in 2012, where he played 22 games across formats and took 23 wickets.
Tony Brian, Chairman of Cricket Scotland, said in a statement that de Lange had been a great servant to cricket in Scotland as well as South Africa. "Con's death at such an early age is a tragedy. He was a great servant to cricket in Scotland as well as South Africa and elsewhere, not just in the national team but also at regional and club level with his infectious and inspirational commitment, both as player and coach.
"But above all, we will remember Con the man - competitive, committed and the ultimate team player, someone with unshakeable principles and integrity. He will be greatly missed and very fondly remembered by many throughout the world of cricket."
Former South Africa fast bowler Allan Donald and current England international David Willey were among those who paid tribute to de Lange on Twitter.
It is with great sadness that Cricket Scotland shares the news that Con de Lange passed away on Thursday 18th April 2019.
— Cricket Scotland (@CricketScotland) April 19, 2019
A great servant to Scotland and the game of cricket, our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.https://t.co/xrOkaJg2lV pic.twitter.com/neoUg3gW9F
Gutted to here that Con De Lange has passed away this morning. What a warrior he was and taken so young. My sincere condolences to the family and there two children. RIP Con De Lange
— Allan Donald (@AllanDonald33) April 19, 2019
One of the best men I know! Lived with me, put up with too much, and taught me even more! Blessed to have had him in my life and thoughts are with his beautiful family at such a sad time! The worlds not fair. Con you're a legend! RIP https://t.co/5DXIJHmLSg
— David Willey (@david_willey) April 19, 2019
Absolutley devastated to wake up to the news that former Northants champ and friend, Con De Lange has passed away. One of the greatest blokes you will ever meet. Never forgotten
— Alex Wakely (@AlexWakely1) April 19, 2019
Truly a champion of a man. Honored to have shared many memories with you. Thoughts and prayers go out to the De Lange family. RIP my brutha. pic.twitter.com/U1UANiDQoy
— JP Duminy (@jpduminy21) April 19, 2019