ICC World T20 2016: New Zealand cricketers set to wear black armbands as a tribute for Martin Crowe
In what will be an emotional day for New Zealand cricket, the players will pay their tributes to Martin Crowe during the match against India in Nagpur. NDTV Sports reported that Kane Williamson’s team will wear black armbands as a mark of respect for the iconic batsman who had passed away recently.
The Kiwis begin their campaign at the VCA Stadium against hosts India wherein a moment of silence will also honor the distinguished cricketer. Williamson admitted that the occasion was difficult for his side since Crowe was quite close to several squad members.
The 25-year old revealed, “In the match tomorrow, we will be showing our respects by wearing black armbands. And, I believe after the anthems, there will be a moment where there will be a pause. So, that will be a special time of recognition on behalf of the side.”
Martin breathed his last on March 3
Unanimously hailed as one of the finest batsmen of his time, Martin breathed his last on March 3 after an arduous battle with cancer. Prior to his death, the 53-year old was also inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame for his contribution to the sport.
In a statement, cricket’s governing body had affirmed, “Martin’s batting combined grace and style with a strong mind and disciplined stroke-selection, making him one of the most exciting batsmen to watch and very difficult to dislodge. He was exceptional throughout his career in both forms of the game and against all oppositions.”
His influence on the current crop of New Zealand players could be discerned from Williamson’s words. The promising youngster who is leading the Kiwis, noted, “Like you mentioned, some blokes in the side, they were very close to Martin and I guess they will deal it in their own way throughout the tournament and throughout the cricket that is coming up.”
He added, “He was a big part of their lives as a cricketer and as a person. It's just the process that you get through when something significant like this happens.”
Crowe had represented the Blackcaps in 77 Tests and 143 ODIs in which he had scored more than 10,000 runs combined. The former captain is also credited to be the pioneer of T20Is by developing a variation called ‘Cricket Max’ in 1997.