A POPULAR cricketer has died suddenly at the age of 38.

Dave Orange, from Brisbane, Australia leaves behind his wife Kerry, 33, and their seven-month-old daughter Eylea.

He played A-grade cricket for South Brisbane District Cricket Club.

His sudden death last Wednesday remains a mystery while his family await a coroner’s report.

Friends and family hailed his “real zest for life” and “larger than life personality” in a touching tribute.

A GoFundMe page set up by friends in his memory said: “We believe Dave was the best of us.

“He was an aspiring entrepreneur, an avid sportsman, one of the great loyal friends and an amazing family man.

“He will be sorely missed by many, many people.”

So far, nearly $75,000 has been raised to help support Dave’s family.

Dave – affectionately known as “Mango” – grew up in Toowoomba and was a successful entrepreneur.

He’d been with his wife Kerry for seven years – with the pair tying the knot three years ago.

Paying tribute to Dave, one friend said: “Dave was the best human, kind, generous, and he loved big!

“He loved his family and friends and most of all he loved his girls.”

Dave’s cricket club added: “He was one of the best team mates/club mates you could ask for, which was reflected in the many lifelong friendships he created throughout his time at the nest.

“His loss is shocking and devastating, as a club we will continue to honour him and the friendship circles he created will live on.”