In the first ODI between India and the West Indies at Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, the Indian players were seen wearing black armbands. The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) revealed the reason, stating that the Indians sported the black armbands to condole the demise of legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar.
Notably, Mangeshkar was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on January 8 after testing positive for Covid-19. After showing signs of improvement, her health deteriorated recently, and she passed away today.
“The Indian Cricket Team is wearing black armbands today to pay their respects to Bharat Ratna Smt. Lata Mangeshkar ji who left for her heavenly abode on Sunday morning. The queen of melody, Lata didi loved cricket, always supported the game and backed Team India,” the BCCI tweeted.
The Indian Cricket Team is wearing black armbands today to pay their respects to Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar ji who left for her heavenly abode on Sunday morning. The queen of melody, Lata didi loved cricket, always supported the game and backed Team India. pic.twitter.com/NRTyeKZUDc
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 6, 2022
India scripted history when they walked on to the field in the first ODI against West Indies as it was the home team’s 1000th ODI. India are the first nation in the cricketing world to play 1000 matches in the 50-over format.
Ahead of the game, captain Rohit Sharma said it was his honour to lead the side in the 1000th ODI. The Mumbaikar said many players in the past have made incredible efforts to put Indian cricket forward, and they will also try to keep the bar high.
“It will be a historic moment as we play the 1000th ODI. I would like to congratulate all the players who have taken part in this long journey. It is an honour for me to lead the side in that game, it will be a privilege to lead the boys. Our journey has been fantastic over the years. So many players have tried to put their best foot forward, we will also try to keep raising the bar,” said Rohit in a video on BCCI.TV.
