No cheerleaders, no fireworks, black armbands in today's IPL match

The IPL 2025 match between Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad turned into a solemn event on Wednesday as the cricketing world paused to mourn the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. Players from both sides wore black armbands, and the match began with a minute's silence, a rare scene in the glitzy world of T20 cricket.

In a move reflecting the nationwide grief and anger, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) cancelled all cheerleader performances and banned fireworks for the match. The somber tone was palpable as fans and players paid silent tribute to the 26 lives brutally taken in Kashmir.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia issued a strongly worded statement condemning the "ghastly and cowardly" attack, affirming the cricketing community's solidarity with the bereaved families. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and stand hand in hand with them," he said, capturing the sentiment across India.

Cricketers, past and present, expressed their anger and sorrow on social media, with #AllEyesOnPahalgam trending globally. Political leaders, Bollywood stars, and millions of common citizens joined in mourning, their messages of grief mingling with demands for justice and stronger action against terrorism.

This attack has reignited memories of past tragedies and strengthened India's resolve. The Indian cricket board's continued boycott of Pakistan in bilateral series since 2008 remains firm, and recent refusals to play tournaments hosted in Pakistan have only been reinforced by this horrifying event.

As players took to the field with heavy hearts, the message was loud and clear: cricket, like the nation, stands united in grief, anger, and determination to never let such acts go unanswered.