Why the Indian Team is Wearing Black Armbands During IND vs AUS Champions Trophy Semi-Final
During the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against Australia in Dubai, the Indian cricket team took to the field wearing black armbands as a mark of respect for Padmakar Shivalkar, an icon of Indian domestic cricket. Shivalkar, who passed away at 84 in Mumbai on Monday, was a legendary left-arm spinner and a crucial figure in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy dominance.
A Pillar of Mumbai Cricket
Shivalkar’s impact on Indian domestic cricket is undeniable. He was instrumental in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy supremacy, contributing significantly to their nine-title winning streak between 1965-66 and 1976-77. Over his two-decade-long career, he took an impressive 589 wickets in 124 first-class matches at an outstanding average of 19.69. His most memorable performance came in the 1972-73 Ranji Trophy final, where his remarkable figures of 8/16 and 5/18 dismantled Tamil Nadu, securing Mumbai another championship title.
BCCI Pays Tribute to the Cricket Stalwart
Expressing its condolences, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a statement acknowledging Shivalkar’s immense contribution to the sport.
"The BCCI deeply mourns the passing of Shri Padmakar Shivalkar on March 3, 2025. The legendary left-arm spinner was a true stalwart of Indian domestic cricket, known for his exceptional skill and dedication to the game."
BCCI President Roger Binny hailed Shivalkar as a "true legend," praising his mastery over left-arm spin and his significant impact on Mumbai cricket. Similarly, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia described him as an "inspiration" to future generations, highlighting his extraordinary consistency and skill.
A Forgotten Legend Who Never Played for India
Despite his exceptional performances, Shivalkar never got the opportunity to represent India at the international level. His prime years coincided with the dominance of Bishan Singh Bedi, making national selection difficult. However, his contributions to the game were acknowledged in 2017 when he received the prestigious Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.
Black Armbands as a Symbol of Respect in Sports
The tradition of wearing black armbands in cricket and other sports is a common way to honor individuals who have passed away.
In August 2024, England’s cricket team wore black armbands during a Test match at Old Trafford in memory of former cricketer and coach Graham Thorpe. Similarly, in the 2023 Cricket World Cup, Australian players donned black armbands in Ahmedabad to pay tribute to Ian Redpath.
Football also follows this tradition. In December 2023, England’s national team wore black armbands during a match against Greece to honor George Eastham, a 1966 World Cup squad member. In October 2024, they paid tribute to defender George Baldock and anti-racism advocate Lord Herman Ouseley in a Nations League match.
The gesture of wearing black armbands remains a powerful symbol of remembrance and respect in the sporting world, reminding fans and players alike of the legacies left behind by the greats.