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In the first ODI of the three-match series between Sri Lanka and India, fans noticed Indian players wearing black armbands, sparking curiosity and concern among viewers.
Why India players are wearing black armbands in the first T20I against Sri Lanka?
The gesture was a tribute to the late Ayushman Gaekwad, a renowned cricket coach and mentor who passed away due to cancer recently.
Gaekwad, a respected figure in Indian cricket, was instrumental in shaping the careers of many prominent players. Known for his dedication to nurturing young talent and his deep understanding of the game, Gaekwad’s passing has left a significant void in the cricketing community. Many have expressed their condolences and shared memories of his invaluable contributions.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the tribute in a statement before the match, explaining that the team decided to wear black armbands to honour Gaekwad’s legacy and express their condolences to his family. The players’ gesture was a mark of respect for a man who had a profound impact on Indian cricket, both at the grassroots and international levels.
As the Indian team took to the field at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the black armbands served as a solemn reminder of the influence and legacy of Gaekwad.
Also READ: From Gautam Gambhir to Harbhajan Singh – Cricket fraternity mourns the demise of Indian legend Anshuman Gaekwad
SL vs IND: Playing of both teams for 1st ODI
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Akila Dananjaya, Asitha Fernando, Mohamed Shiraz
India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj
