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The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) offered a poignant tribute to the victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack ahead of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) IPL 2025 clash at Eden Gardens on April 26. In a rare and solemn moment, the iconic Eden bell, which traditionally signals the start of play, remained silent as a mark of respect. CAB President Snehasish Ganguly, alongside key officials including Secretary Naresh Ojha and Treasurer Prabir Chakrabarty, led the tribute ceremony. Players, officials, and thousands of fans observed a minute’s silence, honoring the lives lost in the devastating attack in Kashmir’s Baisaran valley.
Adding to the emotional atmosphere, players from both KKR and PBKS wore black armbands during the match to express their solidarity with the victims and their families. The Eden Gardens crowd, known for its passion and energy, stood in quiet tribute, many holding candles and flowers near a specially designated memorial section within the stadium. Former Australian cricketer Brad Haddin, present at the venue, also participated in the proceedings. The CAB's heartfelt gesture highlighted the sporting community’s role in uniting the nation during times of tragedy, reinforcing cricket’s power as a medium for collective mourning and resilience.
Other instances of tributes paid by Indian sporting fraternity
Following the Pahalgam attack, the Indian sporting world responded with an outpouring solidarity across multiple platforms. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) mandated a moment of silence before all IPL matches in the subsequent week. During the Sunrisers Hyderabad versus Mumbai Indians encounter, players similarly donned black armbands, and a special message of tribute was displayed across stadium screens.
Beyond cricket, other sporting federations, including the All-India Football Federation (AIFF), announced plans to hold commemorative ceremonies before upcoming matches in the I-League and ISL playoffs. Athletes from various disciplines have also taken to social media to express their grief and support for the victims’ families. Leading sports personalities like Neeraj Chopra, PV Sindhu, and Sunil Chhetri posted heartfelt messages, condemning the violence and calling for unity.
