The Indian cricket team, currently in England to prepare for their upcoming five-match Test series against England, has paid a poignant tribute to the victims of the tragic plane crash that occurred in Ahmedabad on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The team observed a minute's silence and wore black armbands during their intra-squad match in Beckenham as a mark of respect for the lives lost and in solidarity with the affected families.
The Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, claiming the lives of 241 out of the 242 people on board. The devastating incident sent shockwaves across the nation, with several prominent figures, including members of the cricket fraternity, expressing their condolences and prayers.
Ahead of their four-day intra-squad match at the Kent Cricket Ground in Beckenham, the Indian team, led by [Likely new captain's name - assuming Shubman Gill], gathered to observe a minute's silence. The players and support staff were seen wearing black armbands, symbolizing their grief and support for those affected by the tragedy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared images of the team's tribute on social media, further amplifying the message of solidarity.
"The players and members of support staff involved in the intra-squad game in Beckenham are wearing black armbands," the BCCI posted on X. "A minute's silence was also observed today to pay homage to the victims of the Ahmedabad plane crash, as a mark of respect for the lives lost and solidarity with the affected families."
The warm-up game is especially important, as it will be the only match the senior team will play ahead of the England series.
The gesture by the Indian cricket team has been widely appreciated, with fans and commentators acknowledging their sensitivity and compassion during this difficult time. Several other sporting events have also observed moments of silence and tributes to honor the victims of the Ahmedabad plane crash. The World Test Championship Final Day 3 action at Lord's also began after a minute of silence for the victims.
The crash of Air India flight AI171 is the first crash of a Dreamliner since the model entered commercial service in 2011. According to Flightradar24, the aircraft involved had its first flight in 2013 and was delivered to Air India in January 2014.
In the wake of the tragedy, several prominent cricketers have expressed their condolences. Virat Kohli posted on social media, "Shocked to hear about the plane crash at Ahmedabad today. Praying for all those affected and thoughts with their families." Harbhajan Singh also conveyed his shock and anguish, while Irfan Pathan and various IPL franchises mourned the "heartbreaking tragedy."
The Indian cricket team's tribute serves as a reminder of the human cost of such disasters and highlights the importance of unity and support in times of grief. Their gesture has resonated deeply with the nation, offering a moment of solace and reflection amidst the mourning.
