PROMINENT softball player, Eric Thomas, who thrilled many with his robust hitting, passed away on Thursday morning at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, following a three-month battle with life-threatening injuries sustained in a road accident on August 22 on the East Bank Demerara road.

According to reports, Thomas was reportedly on the mend after he was removed from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) but apparently suffered other complications and succumbed.
A permanent fixture on the Regal Over-50 team in and out of Guyana, the burly left-hander and efficient wicket-keeper gained the sobriquet “Big Guy” because of his stature.
Thomas last represented Regal Over-50 at the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) Independence Cup during the annual tournament, held over the Independence weekend in July.
He will also be remembered for hitting six sixes in an over in the 2022 South Florida Softball Cricket League (SFSCL) final versus Toronto Blizzards, played in Fort Lauderdale.
Owner and captain of Regal Over-50 team, Mahendra “Anil” Hardyal told Chronicle Sports he was saddened by the passing of Thomas. An obviously shocked Hardyal pointed out that, only recently, Thomas’ sister had related to him that her brother was on the mend since he was also removed from the ICU and placed in the open ward.
Hardyal further disclosed that plans were in train to hold a wake in Thomas’ honour with the venue likely to be Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO). The date will be finalised shortly after consultations with his sister and other relatives.

The Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc., in a Facebook post said “It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Eric Thomas, a stalwart of the Regal Family.
“Thomas passed away this morning, Thursday November 23 at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.
“In August this year, the all-rounder sustained life threatening injuries after a speeding lorry hit a car that went on to hit Thomas’ parked car from the back as he was about to exit.
“The powerfully built champion left-handed batsman, slow bowler and lightning wicketkeeper will be severely missed.
“The GSCL Inc. extends sincere condolences to teammates, relatives and friends of the 52-year- old.
“May his gentle soul find eternal peace. Walk well Big Guy.”