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Why are Indian and Australian players wearing black armbands during 2nd T20I at MCG?

Sakshi Sharma

 India vs Australia (Source: AFP) India vs Australia (Source: AFP)

In a significant development, India is playing against Australia in the 2nd T20I of the five match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground. It a significant development, Australia have won the toss and opted to bowl first. 

The hosts made one change to their playing XI, with Matthew Short replacing Josh Philippe. It is important to note that India is playing with the same XI that featured in the first T20I.

The previous match in Canberra (1st T20I) was washed out after heavy rain interrupted play twice. India had reached 97 for one in 9.4 overs, with the first delay occurring when the visitors were 43 for one after five overs. The match was reduced to 18 overs per side, but persistent rain eventually forced abandonment.

Why are players wearing black armbands during Ind vs AUS 2nd T20I?

At the toss of the second match both the captains were seen wearing black armbands. The gesture immediately caught the attention of fans, with many wondering about the reason behind this.

The touching gesture was made in memory of Ben Austin. The 17-year-old cricketer who tragically lost his life after being struck on the neck by a ball during a training session earlier this week.

Who was Ben Austin?

Austin was a promising young cricketer representing the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, during a net practice session. While batting, Austin was struck on the neck by a ball despite wearing a helmet. Reports confirmed he was not using a neck guard. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and placed on a ventilator. Unfortunately, despite medical efforts, he failed to survive and passed away on Thursday morning.

To honour Ben Austin’s memory, players from both India and Australia are seen wearing black armbands in the second T20I.

It is worth noting that similar black armbands were seen recently during the second semifinal of the Women’s World Cup 2025, when India Women and Australia Women also paid tribute to a departed soul.