Former Ranji Cricketer and Coach N.M. Amarnath Cremated in Kannur

Former Ranji Trophy cricketer and sports coach N.M. Amarnath, popularly known as Lalettan, was cremated at the Payyambalam crematorium on Monday afternoon. Scores of sports enthusiasts and well-wishers gathered to pay their last respects to the 78-year-old. His death in a road accident in Kannur on Sunday evening has left the sporting community in mourning. Amarnath's mortal remains were brought to his residence on Monday afternoon, where several people gathered to pay their final respects. The accident reportedly occurred at South Bazar in Kannur when Amarnath was returning from a temple at Talap. A car allegedly hit the scooter he was riding, throwing him off it and under a tanker, resulting in his death. Amarnath made notable contributions to cricket, badminton and hockey. He served as a coach with the Kerala Cricket Association and continued to train aspiring badminton players at three centres across Kannur and Kasaragod. His contribution to badminton was particularly noteworthy. He was the son of the late Nakkadi Madhavan, and his wife, Suguna, predeceased him.

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Road accidents remain a major safety concern across Indian roads, often involving vulnerable two-wheeler riders. Local sports coaches play an important foundational role in nurturing young athletic talent in regional towns and districts.