The community of Cheadle and the cricketing world are in mourning after the sudden and tragic death of Sarah Batty, the 46-year-old wife of former England spin bowler Gareth Batty.
The incident occurred on a seemingly ordinary Thursday afternoon at the Waitrose supermarket on High Street. Mrs Batty, a mother to three children, collapsed unexpectedly within the store. Despite the swift response of emergency services and their best efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead after being transported to a nearby hospital.
Gareth Batty, 46, enjoyed a distinguished professional cricket career spanning two decades. He was a key player for Surrey County Cricket Club and represented England in multiple Test matches and One Day Internationals between 2003 and 2016. The couple, who had been together since their youth, were a well-known and respected fixture within the close-knit cricketing community.
A spokesperson for Waitrose expressed the store's profound sorrow, stating: "We're deeply saddened by this tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family and friends at this very difficult time. We're supporting our partners who were in the store and offering them any help they need."
Surrey County Cricket Club also released a heartfelt statement, paying tribute to a "much-loved and respected member of our family" and offering its unwavering support to Gareth and his young family.
The cause of Mrs Batty's sudden collapse is currently unknown. Authorities have confirmed that her death is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the coroner. An inquest will likely be opened to establish the precise medical cause behind this devastating event.
