Written By: N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe | Updated : November 26, 2025 2:24 PM IST
Teen Basketball Player Dies: A 16-year-old national-level basketball player died in a freak court accident after an iron basketball pole fell on his chest during a practice session. The incident reportedly occurred at a local playground in Haryana's Rohtak, where the player was identified as Hardik Rathi.
A chilling video of the incident, captured on CCTV footage shows the 16-year-old basketball player practicing alone in the court. Apparently, Hardik Rathi was practicing to improve his scoring abilities as he was seen running from the three-point line, the semi-circle with the pole in the centre. He was seen jumping and touching the basket moments before the tragic incident occurred.
In the video that went viral on the internet, the 16-year-old basketball player completed the first manoeuvre smoothly. However, he goes again but this time he clutches the basket's rim. To his shock, the pole uproots and falls on his chest. As seen in the video that is widely spreading, Hardik Rathi's friends immediately rushed to help him, but the 16-year-old sports talent died soon after.
#Breaking@Haryana National @player Hardik died after a basketball pole fell on him in Rohtak. Four years ago, Congress MP Deepender Hooda donated 11 lakh rupees, but the stadium remained unmaintained. Three months ago, locals even met with @ChiefMinisterNayabSaini pic.twitter.com/kfXvkTHQFG
Mukund Shahi (@Mukundshahi73) November 26, 2025
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini told a leading media outlet, "Through you, I have to come to know about the death of a basketball player. I will inquire and take action accordingly." Describing the incident "unfortunate", Haryana's Panchayat Minister, Krishan Lal Panwar, added, "I will write to all District Education Officers and the Education Minister. I will seek information in detail."
Paying respect to the lost soul, the Haryana Olympic Association announced a three-day suspension of any sports festivals and events across the state. According to reports, Hardik Rathi had been selected for the national team and had recently returned home from a training camp. Following a post-mortem examination, police officials handed over Hardik Rathi's body to the family.
