Why black armbands in IND vs ENG 3rd ODI at Lord's today?

India players wore black armbands during the third ODI against England at Lord's on Sunday to pay tribute to legendary West Indies cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers. The Indian team management confirmed the gesture, saying, "#TeamIndia is wearing black armbands to pay tribute to West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers following his passing on Friday."

England players also wore black armbands and joined India in observing a minute of silence before the start of the match. The tribute was held in memory of Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed away at the age of 89, as both teams paid their respects to one of cricket's greatest legends.

Widely regarded as one of the finest all-rounders in the history of the game, Sir Garfield Sobers left a lasting impact on world cricket with his exceptional batting, versatile bowling, and brilliant fielding. His legacy continues to inspire generations of cricketers around the world.

The reason: India, England honour Sir Garfield Sobers at Lord's

India and England players paid tribute to legendary West Indies cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers before the start of the third ODI at Lord's. A minute's silence was observed at the 'Home of Cricket', with players, officials, and fans standing together to honour his memory.

As a mark of respect, players from both teams also wore black armbands throughout the match. The special tribute was held to remember Sobers, who passed away at his home in Barbados on Friday at the age of 89.

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh rang the iconic Lord's bell to mark the start of play. Widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time and one of the finest all-rounders in the sport's history, Sir Garfield Sobers leaves behind an unforgettable legacy in world cricket.

Who was Sir Garfield Sobers? Cricket's greatest all-rounder

Sir Garfield Sobers is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers and the finest all-rounder in the history of the game. He made his Test debut for the West Indies at the age of 17 and went on to enjoy a remarkable international career spanning 93 Test matches.

During his career, Sobers scored 8,032 Test runs at an outstanding average of 57.78, including 26 centuries. He also took 235 Test wickets and completed 109 catches, making him one of the most complete cricketers the sport has ever seen.

Following his passing, several cricketers paid tribute to the West Indies legend. Virat Kohli described Sobers as one of cricket's greatest icons, saying the game had lost a true legend and that his remarkable legacy would continue to inspire future generations.

How players reacted to the tribute before the toss

Players from both India and England stood together to observe a minute's silence before the start of the third ODI at Lord's. The emotional tribute was held in memory of West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed away at the age of 89.

Both teams also wore black armbands as a mark of respect for the legendary all-rounder. The players remained united during the tribute, reflecting the deep respect Sir Garfield Sobers earned throughout his remarkable cricket career.

The touching ceremony set a respectful tone before the series decider. Fans at Lord's also joined the tribute, honouring one of the greatest cricketers the game has ever seen.