This is the reason why Indian players are wearing armbands in the Third Test against England

The much anticipated third Test between India and England started today on August 18 at Trent Bridge.

Rishabh Pant’s inclusion in the playing XI grabbed everyone’s attention but there was one more thing about the Indian team that garnered eye-balls. The Indian team was wearing black armbands on their shoulders during the first day of the match.

These armbands were worn by the Team India as a mark of tribute to the former Indian cricket captain Ajit Wadekar who passed away on 15^th August.

Wadekar, aged 77 died at Jaslok Hosiptal in Mumbai due to prolonged illness. Incidentally, he was the first Indian captain to win a Test series in West Indies and England. During his expansive cricket career which spanned across five decades, Wadekar donned various hats. He played the roles of captain, coach, chairman of selectors and team manager.

Featuring in 37 Tests, the left-handed batsman amassed more than two thousand runs and scored one century and 14 half-centuries. His first-class cricket career was staggering as he accumulated more than 15, 000 runs at an impressive average of 47.03.

His greatest achievement came in 1971 when he led the Indian team to Test series wins in West Indies and England, two countries where India had struggled traditionally. Along with being a fine number three batsman, Wadekar was also a highly effective slip fielder.

Several former players, administrators and the governments have paid tribute to Wadekar as he was one of India’s most successful cricket players ever.

The team India under the leadership of Virat Kohli wore black armbands on their shoulders as a mark of respect to this legendry batsman. India is trailing behind 2-0 in this Test series as they have lost both the Test matches played so far. Hence, Kohli and his men have to pull up their socks to ensure the Test series stays alive.