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A cricketer who plunged to his death at a country house is believed to have fallen asleep on the roof.

Sussex fast bowler Matthew Hobden, 22, was found dead last Saturday at an exclusive Scottish estate.

It is understood he and other guests had gone up onto the roof the previous evening to look at the stars.

One line of enquiry is that Matthew then fell asleep and was disorientated when he woke, and tragically fell to his death.

His devastated family confirmed today that he had been enjoying a Scottish New Year celebration with a group of friends.

In a brief statement his family said: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden death of Matthew, who had been celebrating the New Year with friends in the Forres area.

(Image: Mike Hewitt)

“We now ask that we are left alone to deal with the tragic circumstances that have unfolded and are allowed to grieve in private at this difficult time.”

Police say there are no suspicious circumstances but are treating the cause of Matthew’s death as “unexplained”.

A spokesman said: “The death continues to be treated as unexplained and inquiries into the circumstances are ongoing.

Read more:England wear black armbands in memory of Sussex bowler Matthew Hobden

“But there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances. As is standard, a report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.”

(Image: Rex)

Matthew died at Dalvey House, which is set in secluded woods on the outskirts of the Morayshire town of Forres.

The estate offers a range of activities from fishing, golf, hill-walking and mountain biking.

Matthew played for Sussex County Cricket Club and had been tipped for international hours.

His club broke the news of his death, saying everyone at the club was “deeply shocked and saddened” at his passing.

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A statement said: “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.

“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.”