Dirdh Patel, played by cricket club Leeds Modernians, was one of the 241 passengers and crews who died when Air India Boeing 787-8 crashed on Thursday, traveling from Ahmedabad to London.
Dirdh Patel who studied at the University of Huddersfield was among the 242 people aboard Air India Flight AI171who took off from Ahmedabad 12 June tied to London Gatwick Airport. Originally, Gujarat recently completed the master’s degree in artificial intelligence and was preparing to start a career in the technology industry.
According to the BBC, the former lecturer of Dirda Patel, Dr. George Bargiannis, described as a “exceptional individual” who has achieved the highest degree in his course. Dr. Bargiannis, a reader in artificial intelligence at the university school in the field of computer technology and engineering, said, “Dirdh was someone I got to know not only for his academic abilities, but for his warmth, passion and enthusiasm.”
“Dirdh has always been intellectually curious,” he continued. “He came to me during classes with questions that reflected deep understanding and determination. He had a rare ability to see a larger picture and understand how his learning could lead to an impact in the real world.”
Dr. Bargiannis added that after graduation he remained in contact with Mr. Patel. “His loss is a devastating reminder of how fragile life may be. My thoughts are with his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who was lucky to know him. May his memory continue to inspire those of us who had the honor of sharing part of their lives.”
Mr. Patel, a talented versatile, played as an overseas player for cricket club Leeds Modernians during the 2024 season. The club said they were “incredibly grinding” news about his death.
“Thoughts of all in the club are with Dirdh’s family and all who knew him,” they said in a statement.
Airedale and Wharfedale Senior Cricket League said that Mr. Patel was planning to continue playing the cricket “once settled in his new work”. His brother Krutik had previously played a pool for the cricket club and both clubs held a minute silence before their weekend accessories as a sign of respect.
The league sources added that Mr. Patel hoped to balance his professional ambitions in technology with his passion for cricket. “He embodied the ideal of a student athlete,” the spokesman said. “The young man was still committed to his studies and sports, with unshakable work ethics and a clear future ahead.”
Published:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
June 17, 2025
