AUS vs IND: Here’s why Australian and Indian players are wearing black armbands in the 2nd T20I

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In a poignant display of solidarity and remembrance, both the Australian and Indian men’s cricket teams are wearing black armbands during the second T20 International at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This somber gesture is a tribute to the memory of 17-year-old Melbourne cricketer, whose life was tragically cut short in a recent accident.

The cricketing community has been deeply affected by the passing of Ben Austin, a promising young talent. His death, after being struck by a ball during a practice session, sent shockwaves through local cricket circles and beyond. The decision by both national teams to wear black armbands underscores the tight-knit nature of the global cricketing fraternity and its shared grief.

Austin was a well-regarded member of his local cricket club, and his sudden demise has left a significant void. The black armbands serve as a visible symbol of respect and mourning, not just from the players on the field, but from the entire cricketing landscape that feels the loss of a young life with so much potential.

The sight of players from both formidable teams wearing black armbands serves as a touching tribute, reminding fans and players alike of the fragility of life and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship and compassion within cricket.

Notably, the Australian and Indian women’s teams also wore black armbands during their highly anticipated World Cup semifinal match that took place in Navi Mumbai yesterday. That occasion too was a mark of respect for Austin, demonstrating how deeply his passing has resonated across all levels of the sport. The consistent display of solidarity highlights the profound impact of this tragedy on the cricketing family.

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Meanwhile, Australian captain Mitchell Marsh won the toss yet again and decided to field first. The hosts did one change in their playing XI, roping in Matthew Short for Josh Philippe. Short missed the first T20I as he was injured. On the other hand, India went with the same XI that played the series opener.

India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson(w), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

Australia (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh(c), Travis Head, Josh Inglis(w), Tim David, Matthew Short, Mitchell Owen, Marcus Stoinis, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Josh Hazlewood

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