IPL 2025: Why SRH, MI players are wearing black armbands, observed minute’s silence | Cricket News – The Times of India

Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad players wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence during their IPL 2025 fixture at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Wednesday. The players, BCCI and the IPL paid their tribute to victims of Tuesday’s terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
The horrifying attack targeted a popular tourist destination in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam, claiming the lives of at least 26 people and injuring several others. It stands as the deadliest terror strike in the region since the 2019 Pulwama bombing.
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Beyond the minute’s silence and black armbands, there will also be no DJ music, fireworks and cheerleaders during the contest as mark of respect.
For SRH, the fixture holds greater significance than just points on the board — it represents a chance to revive a faltering campaign. With just two wins from seven matches, Pat Cummins’ side is under intense pressure to deliver. Inconsistencies in both batting and bowling have plagued their season, despite having firepower on paper.
The team has particularly struggled on slower, turning tracks, a weakness that was again exposed during their recent four-wicket loss to Mumbai Indians in Mumbai. Even home turf hasn’t brought comfort, with SRH losing two of their three matches in Hyderabad.
Another defeat would severely dent their playoff hopes and pile on the pressure. History also doesn’t favour SRH — they’ve managed just 10 wins in 24 encounters against Mumbai Indians.
Meanwhile, MI have found their rhythm. After a poor start, the five-time champions have surged back with three straight wins, the latest being a commanding nine-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings. Chasing 180 with ease, they stamped their authority and arrive in Hyderabad brimming with confidence.