Here's Why Ireland Players Are Wearing Black Armbands In The 1st ODI Against South Africa
Updated - 11 Jul 2021, 07:29 PM
Even as Ireland and South Africa geared up for the first ODI in Malahide, there was a striking feature in the hosts’ jersey. South Africa, who enjoyed a successful West Indies tour in both Tests and T20Is, made their way to Ireland to further finetune their T20 World Cup preparation and collect more ODI World Cup Super League points. The Irish cricketers were seen wearing a black armband for Evelyn Harmon, who passed away.
Cricket Ireland’s official Twitter handle revealed that Evelyn Harmon was a long-term President of the Malahide Cricket Club. Aside from that, she had an instrumental role in pushing for Ireland’s international status in cricket. Furthermore, Evelyn Harmon was a critical figure in women’s and girl’s cricket apart from Basketball. Hence, the home side’s players wore black armbands to honour Harmon.
Meanwhile, South Africa, who are playing only their second ODI in Ireland, won the toss and elected to field. Their first came in Belfast back in 2007. At present, the Proteas, captained by Temba Bavuma got rid of Paul Stirling in the 12th over for 13 off 40 deliveries. The new-ball bowlers in Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Nigidi have hardly offered any respite, but Andile Phehlukwayo was the one producing the wicket. South Africa have won all five One-day internationals between the two sides thus far, dating back to the 2007 World Cup.
Below is Cricket Ireland’s statement of why the players are wearing black armbands:
The Irish players are wearing black arm bands for Evelyn Harmon who has passed away.
Evelyn was a long-term President of @MalahideCC, instrumental in the grounds push for international status. A key figure in women's and girls cricket, as well as basketball. #ValeEvelyn ? pic.twitter.com/CQlvfzErE3
— Cricket Ireland (@cricketireland) July 11, 2021
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Ireland National Cricket Team South Africa national cricket team
