During the highly anticipated Champions Trophy semifinal against Australia, Team India took to the field wearing black armbands. This gesture was made in honor of the late Padmakar Shivalkar, a legendary left-arm spinner in India’s domestic cricket scene. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the tribute in a tweet, stating, “In honour of the late Shri Padmakar Shivalkar, Team India is wearing black armbands today.”
Demise of Padmakar Shivalkar means black armbands for India
Shivalkar, who passed away on March 4 at the age of 84, was a dominant force in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy. Despite never playing an international match for India, he was widely regarded as one of the finest left-arm spinners the country has produced. Over the course of his first-class career, he played 124 matches and claimed an impressive 589 wickets.
BCCI President Roger Binny expressed his condolences, stating, “Indian cricket has lost a true legend today. His mastery over left-arm spin and his selfless contributions will always be remembered.” Team India’s tribute through black armbands serves as a heartfelt farewell to one of domestic cricket’s greatest stalwarts. Talking about the India vs Australia semifinal, it is a high-octane clash, with India eyeing to take their revenge of the ODI World Cup 2023 Final.
