Former Ranji Trophy cricketer cremated

Former Ranji Trophy cricketer and sports coach NM Amarnath, popularly known as Lalettan, was cremated at the Payyambalam crematorium on Monday (October 2, 2026) afternoon.

Dozens of sports enthusiasts and supporters gathered to pay their last respects to the 78-year-old. His death in a road accident in Kannur on Sunday (October 3, 2026) evening has left the sports community in mourning. Amarnath’s mortal remains were taken to his residence on Monday afternoon where several people gathered to pay their last respects.

The accident reportedly took place at South Bazar in Kannur when Amarnath was returning from a temple in Talap. The car is said to have hit the scooter he was riding, throwing him off it and under the tanker, resulting in his death.

Amarnath made significant contributions to cricket, badminton and hockey. He served as a coach in the Kerala Cricket Association and continued to train budding badminton players at three centers across Kannur and Kasaragod. His contribution to badminton was particularly notable.

He was the son of late Nakkadi Madhavan. His wife, Suguna, predeceased him.

Published – November 3, 2026 0:05 AM IST