Pakistan coach Woolmer dies following defeat

Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer died in hospital yesterday after being found unconscious in his hotel room, the team announced. "I have to announce with great sadness that Woolmer has passed away. Doctors have pronounced him dead," team spokesman Parvez Mir...

Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer died in hospital yesterday after being found unconscious in his hotel room, the team announced.

"I have to announce with great sadness that Woolmer has passed away. Doctors have pronounced him dead," team spokesman Parvez Mir said.

Woolmer, 58, had seen his team crash out of the World Cup on Saturday after a shock Group D defeat by Ireland. The former England batsman was made coach of Pakistan in June 2004. The job of coaching the national team of the cricket-crazy country is considered one of the most pressurised in the sport.

Woolmer, who has a distinguished career as a coach, appeared to take the three-wicket defeat to debutants Ireland in his stride following the match.

His contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board was due to expire on June 30 but it was widely expected he would part company with them after the World Cup which is scheduled to finish on April 28.

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