Just three days for first match; Gloom descends on Calicut FC as Rijohn bids adieu

KOZHIKODE: Rijohn Jose, the wall at the defence lineup of Super League Kerala football club Calicut FC, is no more. Jose was preparing for the first match of the third season on home turf when a road accident came out of nowhere, claiming his life.

The team is reeling from the loss while players are in disbelief about the whole incident. Calicut FC is scheduled to play their opening match against Thiruvananthapuram Kombans at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Kozhikode on the 26th. The 29-year-old defender met with a tragic end just as preparations for the new season were entering their final stages.

Rijohn lost his life near the venue where an event was held the day before to introduce Calicut team members to fans. Rijohn Jose and Gani Ahmed Nigam went out for dinner after the event. Team manager Ibnu Haris said the accident occurred when a speeding motorcycle coming from the opposite direction struck them as the players resumed their journey after taking shelter from heavy rain.

Rijohn had been impressive for Calicut FC, the champions of the Super League's inaugural season. He also excelled in the defensive line for the team in the Kerala Premier League. Having played for clubs such as Sreebhumi FC, George Telegraph SC, FC Deccan, and Forza Kochi FC, Rijohn was a notable presence in both the Calcutta Football League and the Karnataka Super Division League.

The shock of the accident and the loss of his friend has not yet faded from Gani's face as he is in the hospital undergoing treatment. The accident occurred while Rijohn and Gani were returning on a bike after sharing a meal. Rijohn was riding the bike, while Gani was riding pillion as he had a minor leg injury. Gani, who was looking at his phone at the time of the accident, does not clearly remember what happened. He sustained injuries to his hands and right leg.