India Players Wear Black Armbands to Condole Arun Jaitley’s Demise
The
Indian team's players will wear black armbands when they enter the field on the
third day of the first Test between India Vs West Indies in Antigua, in tribute to
former BCCI vice-president Arun-Jaitley. The BJP leader, who also served as
finance minister, died on Saturday after a long illness in the capital.
Mr.
Jaitley played an important role in the development of cricket in Delhi. He was
president of the Delhi Cricket Association and District for 13 years until
2013. During his tenure, several stalwarts such as Virender Sehwag, Ashish
Nehra, Gautam Gambhir and current captain Virat Kohli made their debuts in
India.
According
to IANS, a senior BCCI official said that while Treasurer Anirudh Chaudhry had
proposed the idea, it was immediately supported by the Board of Directors (CoA)
and The Director-General, Rahul Johri.
"Anirudh
felt that players should wear a black armband as a sign of respect for the man
who played a central role in the BCCI administration and the board of directors
met to support this idea," the official said.
In the meantime, BCCI also sent a statement to pay tribute to Mr. Jaitley.
"The
Cricket Control Committee in India regrets the sad passing of its former
vice-president and former IPL board member, Arun Jaitley. A remarkable
statesman, Jaitley was a passionate cricket fan and will always be remembered
as one of cricket's most competent and respected administrators.
"During
his long tenure as President of the Delhi District Cricket Association, he
brought about a significant change in cricket infrastructure. A close friend of
cricketers, he has always supported, encouraged and supported them in their
quest for excellence. BCCI shares the pain and grief of the Jaitley family and
prays for the deceased soul".
