The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people and left the nation in mourning.
As a mark of respect, players and umpires participating in Match 41 of the IPL 2025 season—between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI)—will sport black armbands during the match. The fixture is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, April 23, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
In addition to the black armbands, a one-minute silence will be observed before the start of the match to honor the victims. The BCCI has also decided to cancel cheerleader performances and fireworks displays for the evening as a further mark of respect.
“Players and umpires to wear black armbands in today’s match. There will be one minute’s silence before the start of the match, and there will be no cheerleaders today, also no fireworks,”
– a BCCI source told ANI.
Table of content
Nation Mourns the Pahalgam Tragedy
The Pahalgam terror attack has shocked the nation. The incident occurred in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district and resulted in the deaths of 26 people, with several others injured. The attack drew condemnation from across the political spectrum and spurred high-level national security discussions.
The Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police have since launched a massive search operation in the general area of Baisaran, Pahalgam, in an attempt to track down the terrorists responsible for the heinous act.
Government Response
Following the tragedy, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level security meeting in Srinagar with officials from various intelligence and enforcement agencies. Minister Shah strongly condemned the attack and vowed that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
“Those involved in this heinous act of terror will not be spared,”
– said Amit Shah in a press briefing after the meeting.
Cricket Stands United
The tribute during the SRH vs MI game underscores how the sport continues to serve as a unifying force in difficult times. The black armbands and silent remembrance are expected to send a powerful message of solidarity, grief, and national unity.
As cricket fans across the country tune in, they too are likely to join in mourning the loss of innocent lives, making this IPL game not just another match, but a moment of collective reflection and tribute.