The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) honored the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack during IPL Match No. 41 between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in a somber show of respect and unity.
The game started with sixty seconds of silence as players and fans honored those lost by public address system announcements. The tribute enabled both present-stadium spectators along with television viewers to honor the victims. The entire match was marked by individuals wearing black armbands as respect for those who passed away. Both the commentators aired their realizations about the emotional weight of the tribute and the collective mourning of the nation.
Additionally, the BCCI made the deliberate choice to play the game quietly. Since there were no cheerleaders, fireworks, music, or DJ activities, the event was held in a dignified manner that respected its solemnity.
The BCCI also made the decision to forgo the customary pyrotechnics and cheerleaders for the evening’s entertainment. Devajit Saikia, the secretary of the BCCI, expressed sorrow over the terrible event.
“The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam yesterday. On behalf of the BCCI, while condemning this ghastly and cowardly act with strongest possible words, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls. In sharing their pain and grief, we stand hand in hand at this hour of tragedy,” he said, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.
Both teams’ captains expressed their sympathies and vehemently denounced the horrible conduct at the toss.
“I would like to firstly pass my condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack. We as a team and a franchise condemn any such attacks,” Pandya said.
Cummins said: “It has been heartbreaking for us as well, our thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
Let's all stand for peace and humanity.
A minute's silence was observed in Hyderabad to pay respect to the victims of Pahalgam terror attack.
All the players, support staff, commentators & match officials are wearing black armbands for tonight's game. #TATAIPL | #SRHvMI pic.twitter.com/PIVOrIyexY
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 23, 2025Additionally, broadcasters were instructed to educate viewers about the tragic event and the importance of the black armbands. Indian cricket has already represented national calamities. After the Pulwama attack in 2019, the IPL skipped its inaugural ceremony. During an ODI that year, the Indian team honored slain warriors by donning camouflage headgear.
