Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad players are wearing black armbands during their IPL 2025 fixture today. Here's why.
Last evening, the region of Pahalgam in Kashmir witnessed a terrorist attack which left 26 people dead, including tourists from outside the region.
Condemnation of the attacks, as well as condolences for the victims, came through the day on social media from several prominent cricketers, including the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Why are MI and SRH players wearing black armbands?
In order to mourn the victims, and pay their respects to all affected by the attack, the BCCI announced that during today's IPL match, there would be no cheerleaders or fireworks, usually present during these games. There would also be a moment of silence before the start of the game, and players from both sides would wear black armbands as a mark of respect.
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Black armbands also featured during Mumbai Indians' last match against Chennai Super Kings, as CSK players donned them as a mark of respect for the passing away of squad member Devon Conway's father.
🚨 Toss 🚨 @mipaltan elected to field against @SunRisers. #MI captain Hardik Pandya and #SRH captain Pat Cummins condemn the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack and pay homage to the victims. #TATAIPL | #SRHvMI pic.twitter.com/qfgPeWpmIF
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 23, 2025
BCCI secretary: The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished
“The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam yesterday. On behalf of the BCCI, while condemning this ghastly and cowardly act with the strongest possible words, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls.
"In sharing their pain and grief, we stand hand in hand at this hour of tragedy,” said BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said in an official statement.
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