In a heartfelt moment of solidarity and respect, the Sri Lankan cricket team participating in the ICC Cricket ODI World Cup 2023 donned black armbands during their ongoing match against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The touching tribute by the Sri Lankan players, sporting somber black armbands, piqued the curiosity of cricket fans worldwide. Many were left wondering about the significance of this poignant gesture and the motive behind it.
Sri Lanka Cricket reveals why players are wearing black armbands
In a heartwarming post on social media, the Sri Lankan cricket board unveiled the reason behind this moving gesture. The Kusal Mendis-led team was paying tribute to the late Percy Abeysekera, affectionately known as Uncle Percy. He was an iconic Sri Lankan cricket superfan who had a profound impact on the sport. Uncle Percy passed away on October 30 in Colombo after battling a prolonged illness. At 87 years old, he took his last breath in the Sri Lankan capital.
“Sri Lankan players to wear black-arm bands. Sri Lanka players will wear black armbands during today’s game vs. India to pay tribute to the late Percy Abeysekera, the legendary cheerleader. Abeysekera was an integral part of the game of cricket in Sri Lanka and did play a pivotal role from beyond the boundary line to support and motivate the players. His towering legacy spans across Sri Lanka’s pre- and post-test eras, and his name will remain etched forever among cricket lovers,” the post reads.
Sri Lankan players to wear black-arm bands 🖤
Sri Lanka players will wear black armbands during today’s game vs. India to pay tribute to the late Percy Abeysekera, the legendary cheerleader.
Abeysekera was an integral part of the game of cricket in Sri Lanka and did play a… pic.twitter.com/O8e1b3OpsE
— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) November 2, 2023
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A cricket fan’s remarkable journey
Uncle Percy’s unwavering love and devotion to Sri Lankan cricket had been an inspiring and enduring tale for cricket fans. His passion for the sport began with the 1979 Cricket World Cup in England, and he continued to be a constant presence, attending every Sri Lankan team game. His dedication and love for the team left an indelible mark on the cricketing community.
Ongoing clash between India and Sri Lanka
Speaking of the ongoing match, the Sri Lankan team won the toss and chose to field first in Mumbai. They made one change to their squad, with Dhananjaya de Silva making way for Dushan Hemantha. Meanwhile, Team India remained unchanged from their last game against England.
Also READ: World Cup 2023: Quinton de Kock’s wife Sasha shares a lovely post for her husband after his record ton – NZ vs SA
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