ENG vs IND 2018: The Reason Behind Indian's Wearing Black Arm Band Revealed

Team India players have decided to wear black armbands in the memory of former skipper Ajit Wadekar, who passed away recently at the age of 77, in the third Test against England at Trent Bridge.

Veteran Wadekar played 37 Tests and amassed 2,113 runs at an average of 31.07. His only Test hundred came against New Zealand in Wellington in February 1968, a knock that helped India to clinch the Test. Eventually, the Asian nation won their first-ever series (3-1) away from home.

Despite being a left-handed No.3 batsman of good repute, Ajit Wadekar’s name will forever be synonymous with India’s series victories in Windies and England in the summer of 1971.

Wadekar, India’s 16th Test captain, led the country in 16 Tests, with India winning four and losing four matches. Wadekar decided to step down after India’s dismal tour to England in 1974.

Team India starts on a good note

Meanwhile, things were looking grim for India when England skipper Joe Root opted to bowl first after winning the toss. The visitors went in with three changes from the Lord’s Test. They brought in debutant Rishabh Pant in place of Dinesh Karthik.

Furthermore, they brought in Jasprit Bumrah and Shikhar Dhawan in the first XI. Bumrah returns from an injury while Dhawan slots back after missing the second Test.

However, against everybody’s expectations, Indian openers Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul have put on a positive start. They have beautifully negated the new ball and have crossed 50 runs without losing any wicket. The management will want them to continue and finish the morning session on a high.