The final of the T20 Mumbai League 2025 between SoBo Mumbai Falcons and Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals commenced on a somber note at Wankhede Stadium, with players, officials, and spectators observing a minute's silence to honor the victims of the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. The tragic incident occurred earlier on Thursday, casting a pall over the city and the nation.
Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft, carrying approximately 242 passengers and crew members, went down in the Megh Nagar area, near the airport, resulting in a devastating fire and widespread destruction. Initial reports indicate that over 200 lives were lost, with many others injured. The aircraft also struck a resident doctors' hostel, causing significant damage. The Indian Medical Association Gujarat confirmed the deaths of three MBBS students, and many others have been hospitalized.
In a show of solidarity and respect for the victims, players from both teams in the T20 Mumbai League final wore black armbands. A condolence message was displayed on the big screen at Wankhede Stadium, conveying the thoughts and prayers of the league and its participants to the affected families. The message read: "Our prayers are with the victims of today's crash. Remembering them in silence and solidarity."
The T20 Mumbai League released an official statement, saying, “In light of the tragic plane crash incident in Ahmedabad and in the spirit of solidarity and national sentiments, players from SoBo Mumbai Falcons and Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals, along with MCA officials, observed a minute of silence for the victims. A condolence message was displayed on the big screen before the start of the T20 Mumbai League 2025 Final at Wankhede Stadium, and all players wore black armbands."
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the country, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing the crash as "heartbreaking." Emergency services, including fire brigades and medical teams, swiftly responded to the scene, initiating rescue and relief operations. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
Several members of the Indian cricket fraternity expressed their grief and offered condolences via social media. Gautam Gambhir, currently in Beckenham, England, wrote, "Extremely saddened by the tragic crash in Ahmedabad. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this catastrophe." Shubman Gill, the Test skipper, added, "Shaken by the heartbreaking tragedy in Ahmedabad. In this hour of grief, sending prayers to all those affected, and strength to the brave souls helping on the ground." K L Rahul also shared his condolences, saying, "Shocked to hear about the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected and their loved ones."
The minute of silence observed at the T20 Mumbai League final served as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the tragedy and the importance of unity in times of sorrow. Former India captains Kapil Dev, Rohit Sharma, Dilip Vengsarkar and Diana Edulji were also present during the summit clash at the Wankhede Stadium. The T20 Mumbai League final offered a moment of reflection and solidarity, bringing together players, officials, and fans in collective mourning.
