World Cup 2023: Why Sri Lankan Players Wearing Black Armbands during IND vs SL?

ICC Cricket ODI World Cup 2023: 33rd ODI World Cup cricket match is ongoing at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai between India and Sri Lanka. In this match, all the Sri Lankan cricket players are wearing black armbands to pay respect to their super player Abeysekera, who expired recently.

Abeysekera was a famous and great Sri Lankan cricket fan, who passed away in Colombo on Monday after prolonged illness at the age of 87. He was popularly called as Uncle Percy, and was a regular attendee at stadiums during Sri Lanka cricket matches. He is well known for his colourful costumes and he started his cricket journey from 1979 World Cup, attending all major cricket events, except for the ongoing tournment in India.

SLC team explained that “Sri Lanka cricket players will wear black armbands during today’s game with India to pay tribute to the late Percy Abeysekera, the legendary cheerleader. He was an integral part of the Sri Lanka game and played an important role from beyond the boundary line to support and motivate the players”.

Another statement added, “His towering legacy spans across Sri Lank’s pre and post test eras and his name will remain etched forever among all cricket fans”.

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Abeysekera was also known to have close relationships with famous cricketers like Arjuna Ranatunga, Sanath Jayasuriya and Kumar Sangakkara. He was also famous for his relationships with Indian cricketers such as MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Rohit even met Abeysekera at his home during this year’s Asia Cup. Kohli also invited him to the Indian dressing room for an interaction during India’s tour to Sri Lanks in 2015.

Also, BCCI tweeted that “Percy Abeysekera was a bundle of energy, lighting up every moment on the field with his constant cheering. He shared a deep bond with Indian cricketers and developed a strong connection every time. Team India toured Sri Lanka. His presence will be dearly missed. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. #RIPUnclePercy.”

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