A former Canterbury cricketer has died following a short battle with cancer.

Cleighten Cornelius, who represented Canterbury between 2001 and 2005, passed away after being diagnosed last year with myeloma, a blood cancer that attacks the bone marrow.

Canterbury Cricket confirmed the news in a statement, with a spokesperson saying: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Canterbury cricketer Cleighten Cornelius (First Class Cap #535), following a short battle with cancer.”

A right arm pace bowler, Cornelius played three first class matches and ten List A matches for the province during his career.

Canterbury Cricket paid tribute to both his sporting contribution and the person he was away from the game. “He wore the Red & Black with pride and made a valued contribution to our cricketing community, both in Christchurch and in his home region of Marlborough,” a spokesperson said.

“Cleighten will be remembered not only for his efforts on the field, but for the person he was off it.”
“Our thoughts are with Cleighten’s family, friends, and teammates at this difficult time.”

Tributes have continued to flow from the wider cricketing community. In a heartfelt online tribute, a friend wrote: “We are deeply saddened to honor the life and legacy of Cleighten Cornelius, a former Canterbury cricketer whose passing has left an overwhelming sense of loss across the cricketing community.

“After a brief and brave battle with cancer, Cleighten’s life was tragically cut short, but his dedication, pride, and character will forever remain etched in the memories of those who knew him.

“Cleighten Cornelius, First Class Cap #535, represented Canterbury from 2001 to 2005 as a right-arm pace bowler. Throughout his career, he played in three First-Class matches and ten List A games, consistently displaying skill and determination.

“His pride in wearing the Red & Black was evident in every match he played, and his respect for the game and his teammates set him apart as a true sportsman.
“Beyond the statistics, Cleighten’s contributions to the game went much further.

“He was part of a generation of players that reinforced the spirit and passion of cricket in the Canterbury region. Whether on the field in Christchurch or back in his hometown of Marlborough, Cleighten embodied the core values of teamwork, perseverance, and discipline. These qualities were evident both in his sporting career and in his personal life.

“While his achievements on the field will always be remembered, it is Cleighten’s character off the field that made the most lasting impression.

“Known for his humility, kindness, and respect for others, he formed deep, meaningful connections with those around him. Teammates, friends, and colleagues will remember him not only as a bowler but as a person who brought strength, camaraderie, and warmth to every relationship.

“Cleighten’s battle with cancer, though short, was faced with incredible courage. He remained resilient and strong in the face of adversity, and his bravery during this time will always be remembered by those who loved him.

“The loss of Cleighten Cornelius is felt deeply by his family, friends, former teammates, and the wider cricketing community.

“It serves as a poignant reminder of how fleeting life can be and how important it is to appreciate the people and moments that shape us.

“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the life he lived, one marked by service to the sport, lasting friendships, and a character that touched all who knew him. His legacy will live on in both the cricket matches he played and the countless lives he touched along the way.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Cleighten’s family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him. May his memory be a source of comfort and strength to all who mourn his loss.”