WTC Final 2025: Australia and South Africa Cricketers Pay Tribute to Ahmedabad Plane Crash Victims

As the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 between Australia and South Africa began at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground on Friday, players from both sides observed a moment of silence to pay homage to the victims of the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad earlier this week.

With black armbands adorning their sleeves, players and officials stood in solemn silence before the opening session, offering respect to those who lost their lives in one of India’s most heart-wrenching aviation tragedies in recent years.

The incident, which occurred during a London-bound flight from Ahmedabad, claimed numerous lives and sent shockwaves through the global Indian diaspora. The respectful gesture at Lord’s underscored the global solidarity the sporting community often shows in times of grief.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had earlier reached out to the International Cricket Council (ICC) requesting a formal tribute during the marquee final. The ICC responded positively, arranging the observance prior to the toss.

Fans at Lord’s, many of whom were Indian expatriates or visitors from India, stood with bowed heads during the tribute, and the stadium’s giant screen displayed a simple yet powerful message:
“In memory of those lost in the Ahmedabad Air India crash. Our thoughts are with their families.”

This humanitarian moment set a somber yet respectful tone to the high-stakes clash, reinforcing cricket’s role as more than just a sport — a bridge of empathy and global fraternity.