The first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy between India and England at Headingley began on a sombre note as players from both teams wore black armbands to pay tribute to the victims of the recent plane crash in Ahmedabad on Friday, June 20.
A moment of silence was observed before the national anthems as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives in the tragic incident.
The gesture came in response to the Air India plane crash that took place on June 12, when a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner flight bound for Gatwick Airport in London crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
The aircraft collided with the hostel building of BJ Medical College, located near the airport, resulting in the deaths of more than 270 people. Most of the victims were Indian and British nationals. Only one survivor was found from the crash site.
The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed the tribute through an official statement, expressing solidarity with the families affected by the crash.
The tragic event has deeply moved people in both countries, and the cricket community came together to honour the lives lost.
India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant, in a pre-series press conference, had spoken about the emotional atmosphere surrounding the team following the incident.
He acknowledged the pain felt across the country and said the team would do its best to bring smiles back by performing well on the field. The players have taken this responsibility with seriousness as they begin the Test series under heavy emotions.
