New Delhi: India are up against Afghanistan in their opening match of the Super Eight stage
at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados. Both Asian sides are looking to start with a win to give themselves the best possible chance to progress to the semi-finals from Group 1.
Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, tragic news broke out that sent shockwaves in the Indian cricket circuit. Former India fast bowler David Johnson sadly passed away on Thursday after falling from his fourth-floor balcony in Bengaluru. The local police are said to be in the process of determining if it was a case of suicide.
In Johnson’s honour, the Indian cricket team are wearing black armbands in their T20 World Cup Super Eight match against Afghanistan.
Johnson, who played two Tests for India in 1996, was known for his rapid pace.
“Team India will wear black armbands today in memory of former India fast bowler David Johnson, who passed away on Thursday,” the BCCI tweeted ahead of the start of play at the Kensington Oval.
Team India will wear black armbands today in memory of former Indian fast bowler David Johnson, who passed away on Thursday. pic.twitter.com/dhFiwjnWSs
— BCCI (@BCCI) June 20, 2024
Johnson featured in a Test each against Australia and South Africa and bagged three wickets. He took 125 wickets in 39 First-Class games and 41 in 33 List-A games for Karnataka between 1992-93 and 2001-02.
Former India cricketers and Johnson’s state teammates Venkatesh Prasad and Anil Kumble paid their tributes on social media. Iconic cricketer Sachin Tendulkar also mourned Johnson’s death. BCCI secretary Jay Shah also paid condolences on Johsnon’s demise.
India opt to bat
Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first in sunny conditions at Kensington Oval. The Men in Blue brought in Kuldeep Yadav in place of Mohammed Siraj while Karim Janat made way for Hazratullah Zazai in Afghanistan playing XI.
IND vs AFG: Indian players took the field in Super Eight clash against Afghanistan wearing black armbands. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
