A highly-regarded cricketer and future England prospect has died suddenly in a Moray town – hundreds of miles from his home in Sussex.
Police were called to a property on the outskirts of Forres after fast bowler Matthew Hobden died on Saturday.
They said the 22-year-old’s death was being treated as unexplained.
“Enquiries are at a very early stage but there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances,” a spokesman said.
“A report will be sent to the procurator fiscal as is usual procedure.”
Mr Hobden’s club announced his death on Saturday evening.
It said in a statement: “Sussex Cricket is deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Matthew Hobden.
“Matthew was an exciting young cricketer with a big future ahead of him in the game.
“He was a fantastic individual who had progressed through Sussex’s Youth and Academy ranks, having been born locally in Eastbourne.
“He made his first-class debut for Sussex in 2014 and had represented the county across all three formats over the past two seasons. He will be greatly missed.
“Sussex would like to offer their deepest condolences to Matthew’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
England wore black armbands on day two of the second test against South Africa in memory of Mr Hobden.
He was due to travel to South Africa with the Potential England Performance Programme this month.
He and five other county bowlers were due to join up with the senior squad in Johannesburg in preparation for the forthcoming one-day international series.
A message on the England cricket team’s Facebook page read: “We are shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Matthew Hobden. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and team-mates.
“The England players will wear black armbands during today’s play in memory of Matthew.”