RIP Bob

Hey yaars,

It's with sadness that I inform you that Bob Woolmer, Pakistan's national team coach, passed away this morning at the age of 58. There are differing reports out there, but from whatever details I've read, he was found unconscious on the floor of his hotel room. It's possible that it was a heart attack, though I'm not positive. In any event, it's a very tragic day.

In a twisted way, it's almost admirable that he cared so much about his team. From what I've seen in post-match conferences last night, he was extremely dissappointed, particularly noting the day as "one of the worst in his life". His deep concern over his work was commendable, which is more than can be said of many of his pupils.

Many have pointed at the high-stress job of coaching in the subcontinent. I think it was the BBC that compared it to coaching Real Madrid or the New York Yankees. When you win, everyone's your best mate, and when you falter, you're public enemy #1. Sadly ironic, the fanatics were already changing "Death to Woolmer, Death to Inzamam" yesterday evening in the streets of Lahore and Karachi. I'm sure they'd revoke those words after today's events.

It's cliche, but it does put things into perspective. It is simply a game, and while passion is admirable, there should be a limit. Even before today, I felt Bob deserved a renewal - he wasn't out there playing - unfortunately he's now completed his innings.

I hope and pray Mr. Woolmer enjoys the paradise of heaven, and may he rest in peace.