IND vs ENG 2021: Why are the Indian players wearing black armbands today?
Indian players sported black armbands on the opening day of the fourth Test against England on Thursday as a mark of respect to former player and coach Vasudev Paranjape, who passed away on August 29.
Vasudev, alias Vasoo, Paranjape, 82, was a respected member of the cricket community who played a crucial role in shaping the careers of many Indian players. He died at his Mumbai residence due to age-related illnesses.
In a post on its Twitter handle prior to the start of The Oval Test, the BCCI said:
''The Indian Cricket Team is sporting black armbands today to honour the demise of Shri Vasudev Paranjape.''
Paranjape featured in 29 first-class matches for Mumbai and Baroda between 1956-70. He ended his playing career with a total of 785 first-class runs, including a career-best 127 against Baroda in the 1964 edition of the Ranji Trophy.
Vasudev Paranjape was a modern-day 'Dronacharya' for four generations of Indian cricketers
But it was his exploits as a mentor that propelled him into the upper echelons of the Indian cricket community.
From the legendary Sunil Gavaskar to Dilip Vengsarkar, Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh and Rohit Sharma, Vasoo Paranjape played a stellar role in shaping the careers of four generations of Indian cricketers.
Tributes have poured in from former as well as current Indian cricketers.
The BCCI also released an official statement, with president Sourav Ganguly recalling the times that he spent with Paranjape during his playing days.
The fact that the team members are sporting black armbands underlines the respect that Paranjape earned during his decorated coaching career.
India, England each make two changes for Oval Test
England captain Joe Root won the toss, and with overcast conditions greeting everyone in south London had no hesitation in opting to bowl first.
England have made two changes to their playing XI. Chris Woakes and Ollie Pope have replaced Sam Curran and Jos Buttler.
India have also made a couple of changes, with Shardul Thakur and Umesh Yadav replacing Ishant Sharma and Mohammad Shami.