During IPL Match No. 41 between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) honoured the victims of the terror incident in Pahalgam in a sombre show of respect and support.
After a formal announcement over the public address system, a 60-second moment of silence was observed prior to play to remember those who lost their lives. This made the homage accessible to both broadcast and in-stadium audiences. As a sign of respect, players, referees, commentators, and support personnel all wore black armbands during the game. While discussing the emotional impact of the homage and the nation’s collective sadness, the commentary team also appreciated these actions on air.
Additionally, the BCCI made the deliberate choice to play the game quietly. Since there were no cheerleaders, fireworks, music, or DJ activities, the event was held in a dignified manner that respected its solemnity.
The BCCI also made the decision to forgo the customary pyrotechnics and cheerleaders for the evening’s entertainment. Devajit Saikia, the secretary of the BCCI, expressed sorrow over the terrible event.
“The terrible loss of innocent life in yesterday’s horrific terror assault in Pahalgam has left the cricketing world in shock and agony. On behalf of the BCCI, I offer our deepest sympathies to the families of the deceased and offer prayers for their souls, all the while strongly denouncing this heinous and cruel crime. According to ESPNCricinfo, he stated, “We stand hand in hand at this hour of tragedy in sharing their pain and grief.”
Both teams’ captains expressed their sympathies and vehemently denounced the horrible conduct at the toss.
“First and foremost, I want to express my sympathy to the victims of the terrorist assault. “Any such attacks are condemned by our team and franchise,” Pandya stated.
Cummins stated: “It has been heartbreaking for us as well, our thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
Let’s all stand for peace and humanity.
A minute’s silence was observed in Hyderabad to pay respect to the victims of Pahalgam terror attack.
All the players, support staff, commentators & match officials are wearing black armbands for tonight’s game. #TATAIPL | #SRHvMI pic.twitter.com/PIVOrIyexY
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 23, 2025
Additionally, broadcasters were instructed to educate viewers about the tragic event and the importance of the black armbands. Indian cricket has already represented national calamities. After the Pulwama attack in 2019, the IPL skipped its inaugural ceremony. During an ODI that year, the Indian team honoured slain warriors by donning camouflage headgear.
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