The match marks the first ODI encounter between India and Australia since the World Cup 2023 final.
Digital Desk: The Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma was seen wearing a black armband when the Indian team arrived at the playing ground of the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal toss against Australia in Dubai. It was a gesture, a tribute from the cricket community to honor Padmakar Shivalkar who had passed away on 3rd March 2025, the legendary left arm spinner.
Australian captain Steve Smith won the toss and opted to bat first, while India took to fielding.
Why are the Indian Players wearing Black Arm Bands?
The purpose of Indian players wearing black armbands is to pay tribute and offer respect to Padmakar Shivalkar
Shivalkar was renowned for his exceptional bowling skills, he received worldwide recognition for mastering line and length delivery as well as his abilities to make balls turn on flat surfaces. Despite never obtaining a chance to represent India internationally he earned exceptional recognition as a premier Indian cricketer.
His accomplishments in Mumbai cricket were significant since many consider his role as mentor to be unmatched.
In his Ranji Trophy career Shivalkar secured 124 first-class matches through which he took 589 wickets at a remarkable average of 19.69. His deceptive game plan consisting of flight and accuracy and sharp turn ability made him rank among the best spinners within Indian domestic competitions. Shivalkar produced a historic match in Ranji Trophy by taking 8 wickets for 16 runs and 5 wickets for 18 runs during the 1972–73 final that secured Mumbai's win against Tamil Nadu.
IND vs AUS: The Biggest Rivalry:-
The match marks the first match between India and Australia for the first One-Day International contest after Australia won the 2023 World Cup final. In this tournament India holds dominance as they remain unbeaten throughout the group matches.
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