Why is Indian cricket team wearing black arm bands in Champions Trophy semi-final match vs Australia?

India and Australia took to the field for the first semi-final match of Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai on Tuesday. Indian cricket team were spotted wearing black arm bands when Rohit Sharma came out for the toss. The Men in Blue are mourning the loss of former Mumbai legend Padmakar Shivalkar who passed away on Monday. This is the second stalwart from Mumbai who passed away recently after Milind Rege. 

Mumbai Cricket Association put out a statement on X which read, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Padmakar Shivalkar, a true legend of Mumbai cricket. His invaluable contributions, passion for the game, and inspiring legacy will be always remembered and cherished. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire cricketing fraternity during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”

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We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Padmakar Shivalkar, a true legend of Mumbai cricket. His invaluable contributions, passion for the game, and inspiring legacy will always be remembered and cherished.

Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire… pic.twitter.com/y07DlOOTPq

— Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) (@MumbaiCricAssoc) March 3, 2025

Shivalkar, a noted left-arm spinner made his debut in 1961 as a 21-year-old and went onto play 124 games in First-Class cricket. The former Mumbai star picked 589 wickets with 42 fifers and 13 ten wicket hauls with a best of 8/16. He also played 12 List A games and picked 16 wickets with a best of 3/35. 

Australia wins the toss and bats first 

Rohit Sharma lost yet another toss and saw Steve Smith opted to bat first on what looks like a great wicket for the spin bowlers. Australia made two changes with Cooper Connolly coming for Matthew Short. The other change witnesses Jason Sangha replacing Spencer Johnson in the playing XI. Team India on the other hand went in with the same side that beat New Zealand on Sunday. 

Speaking at the toss, Steve Smith said, “We'll have a bat. Looks a pretty dry surface, pretty dry square, we'll like to get some runs on the board. The guys had a couple of sessions at the academy, ready to go, should be a good contest. Looks a lot drier, it should take more turn. Very good side - India - and we like coming up against them. We are looking forward to it.”

India skipper Rohit Sharma said, “I was prepared to do both (Bat and Bowl). When you're in two minds, it's better to lose the toss. The pitch keeps changing its nature. You have to play good cricket. We've played good cricket in all three games and that's what we'll try to do. It's going to be challenging.”