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Day 2 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at t𝔍he Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) began with a somber gesture from the Indian cricket team, as players took to the field wearing black armbands.
Why Indian players are wearing black arm bands?
This act was a mark of respect and mourning for the passing of former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26, 2024💞, at the age of 92, af🌳ter being admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in critical condition.
Dr. Singh, a statesman and economist, served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, overseeing significant economic reforms and developments. His leadership left an enduring legacy, and Team India’s gesture was a tribute to his remarkable service to the country.
The Board of Control for Cricket iꦜn India (BCCI) confirmed that the players woul♑d don the armbands as they took to the field, symbolizing their respect and remembrance for a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping modern India.
“The Indian Cricket Team is wearing black armbands as a mark of respect to former Prime Minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh who passed away on Thursday,” tweeted the BCCI.
The Indian Cricket Team is wearing blackඣ armbands as a mark of respect to former Priꦚme Minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh who passed away on Thursday.
— BCCI (@BCCI)
Match Context
As play resumed on Day 2, Australia were positioned at 311 for 6, having built a solid foundation on Day 1. The match is crucial for both teams in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with India aiming to bounce back after a challenging first day where they struggled against Australia’s batting lineup.
In form Steve Smith was still out in the middle with skipper Pat Cummins, batting on 68 and 8 respectively.