The Air India plane disaster is still revealing tragic information, with reports confirming that a cricketer was among the fatalities. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner (AI171), which had 230 passengers and 12 crew members on board, crashed into a nearby medical college complex shortly after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. 241 people perished in the disaster, leaving just one survivor who came out of the ruins.

One of the victims of the crash of the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which was flying from Ahmedabad to London, was 23-year-old Dirdh Patel, a student at the University of Huddersfield.

After earning an MSc in artificial intelligence from the University of Huddersfield, the young, aspiring cricketer played for Leeds Modernians Cricket Club. The incident, however, sadly ended his promising future. While earning his Master's degree in 2024, he scored 312 runs and took 29 wickets for the 1st XI in 20 games. He was originally from Gujarat.

Patel's professors and cricket club both paid tribute to him, highlighting the profound effect he had on everyone who knew him.

Dr. George Bargiannis, Patel's former student, gave him glowing accolades. He called him an "exceptional individual" and noted that he earned the highest mark in his course.

"Mr. Patel was someone I came to know not just for his academic abilities, but for his warmth, passion, and enthusiasm," said Dr. Bargiannis, a reader in artificial intelligence at the university's school of computing and engineering, as quoted by the BBC.

"Dirdh was an extraordinary person, continually seeking knowledge and approaching me with inquiries that demonstrated his thorough comprehension and dedication during class.

"He clearly understood how his education might help him make a positive difference in the world and how to see the bigger picture."

He also disclosed that Patel contacted him once he had finished his university studies. He sorrowfully stated, "His loss is a devastating reminder of how fragile life can be." My thoughts are with everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him, including his friends, family, fellow students, and friends. "May his memory continue to inspire those of us who had the privilege of sharing a part of his life."

Leeds Modernians Cricket Club, whose overseas player during the 2024 season was Patel, also lamented his passing.

"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Dirdh's family and everyone who knew him," the club said.

According to a representative for the Airedale and Wharfedale Senior Cricket League, Patel intended to keep following his love of cricket after getting used to his new employment.

In addition, they revealed that his brother Krutik had formerly played for the Pool Cricket Club, and both teams paused for a minute of silence in his honor before their weekend games.

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