Related Articles
Delhi, October 25, 2023 – In a poignant and heartfelt gesture, Australian cricketers participating in the ongoing match against the Netherlands at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi donned black armbands on their sleeves. This act of remembrance holds special significance, though it is unrelated to the recent passing of former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi.
Before the commencement of the match, both Dutch and Australian players paid their respects to the late Bishan Singh Bedi, who passed away on October 23 at the age of 77 after a prolonged illness. The minute of silence was a touching tribute to the cricketing legend, acknowledging his immense contributions to the sport.
However, the reason behind the Australian cricketers wearing black armbands lies in a personal tragedy that has deeply affected their teammate, Fawad Ahmed. On October 23, Fawad Ahmed, the 41-year-old cricketer, endured the heartbreaking loss of his four-month-old child. This heart-wrenching incident has reverberated throughout the cricket world, prompting a united display of empathy and support.
Fawad Ahmed and his wife had welcomed their second child into the world in June of this year. Sadly, the infant encountered severe health complications, leading to hospitalization and, ultimately, a devastating loss. In light of this tragedy, Australian players are wearing the black armbands as a somber yet heartfelt tribute to Fawad Ahmed and his grieving family.
Fawad Ahmed, who previously represented Australia in 2013, had faced a challenging hiatus from national team participation. The loss of his child transcends the boundaries of cricket, serving as a stark reminder of the human experiences that connect us all. The display of unity and support within the cricketing community is a testament to the bonds that extend beyond the playing field, offering solace to a teammate in his time of profound sorrow.
