A shocking accident in Rohtak, Haryana, has left the sporting community in grief. A 16-year-old national-level basketball player lost his life when a basketball pole collapsed on him during practice, highlighting serious safety concerns at local sports facilities. The incident has brought attention to the need for strict checks on sporting equipment to protect young athletes.
Routine practice turns deadly
The incident took place on the morning of November 25, 2025, at a sports ground in Lakhan Majra village. The teenager, identified as Hardik Rathi, was practicing alone when he attempted a dunk. As he hung onto the hoop, the iron basketball pole suddenly gave way and fell on his chest. The entire event was captured on a nearby CCTV camera, showing how quickly a normal practice session turned tragic.
Passers-by and fellow players rushed to help, lifting the pole and taking him to PGI Rohtak hospital. Despite doctors’ best efforts, Hardik could not survive the severe injuries. The young athlete’s death has left his family, friends and the entire state’s sports fraternity in deep shock.
A promising talent lost
Hardik was a rising star in Indian basketball. He had won medals in several youth championships, including silver at the Sub-Junior National Championship and bronze at other prestigious tournaments. Coaches and teammates remembered him as a dedicated and passionate player who dreamed of representing India at the highest level.
His untimely death has raised serious concerns about the maintenance and safety of sports infrastructure in Haryana. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine whether negligence or faulty equipment contributed to the accident. The tragedy has also sparked calls for urgent safety audits at all sports facilities to ensure that such accidents are prevented in the future.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder that proper safety measures are crucial in sports. Behind every hoop, net and court are young lives, and their protection must always be a top priority.
