Indian Players Wear Black Armbands in Leeds Test to Pay Tribute to Plane Crash Victims

• Jun 20, 2025

Leeds (England), June 2025:
A touching moment unfolded during the third Test match between India and England at Leeds, as the entire Indian cricket team took to the field wearing black armbands. The gesture was made as a tribute to the victims of the recent tragic plane crash in India.

The Indian team’s silent but powerful expression of solidarity was widely appreciated by fans, commentators, and cricketing communities around the world.

Nation in Mourning After Tragic Crash

The black armbands were worn to honor those who lost their lives in a devastating plane crash that occurred just days before the match. The incident claimed several lives and left the nation in deep grief.

Speaking at the toss, Indian captain Rohit Sharma said:

“Today, we play with heavy hearts. This black band is a small tribute to those who lost their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families.”

A Gesture Beyond the Game

The symbolic tribute demonstrated that cricket is not just a game, but a platform to unite people in both joy and sorrow. Social media was flooded with emotional reactions, with fans praising the players for showing empathy and standing with the nation in a time of loss.