The Match No. 44 of the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League is featuring players from Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings wearing black armbands up their sleeves. The current game between the two sides is being played at the Eden Gardens, located in the city of Kolkata.
Hosts KKR recently requested approval from the Board of Cricket for Control in India (BCCI) to wear black armbands during the ongoing clash to pay tribute to the victims who lost their lives in the recent brutal terrorist attack at Baisaran Valley in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir which took place on April 22, 2025.
Despite the BCCI not issuing an official statement as of now, it is assumed that KKR wanted to take this moment to commemorate the victims and their families who had to suffer due to the horrific act of extreme violence.
J&K-born Umran Malik inducted by KKR
In a massive development for the defending champions, Umran Malik made his way to the franchise to complete his rehabilitation process for the remaining part of IPL 2025. Umran was originally acquired by KKR for INR 75 lakh, but was soon ruled out due to injury.
Days after the current season began, Chetan Sakariya was brought on as Umran’s successor. It is important to remember that Umran has not been added to the official squad and will only travel with the team to spend time on crucial areas like bowling and fitness.
Umran Malik played his final competitive match for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the previous IPL season. Before being suspended for the entire season, he only participated in one Orange Army game. Regarding his domestic pursuits, Umran was scheduled to compete in the Duleep Trophy in 2024. However, a hip fracture before to the event forced him to withdraw.
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