Why Are Windies Players Wearing Black Armbands During the 2nd Test?
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Synopsis
West Indies players honor the late Bernard Julien by wearing black armbands during the 2nd Test against India. Julien, a vital contributor to the 1975 World Cup victory, is remembered not only for his cricketing prowess but also for his indomitable spirit. This tribute reflects the deep respect and legacy he left behind.
Key Takeaways
- West Indies players honor Bernard Julien with black armbands.
- Julien was part of the 1975 World Cup winning team.
- He played 24 Test matches and 12 ODIs during his career.
- Julien's legacy inspires the current West Indies team.
- The team is currently 1-0 behind in the series against India.
New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) During the opening day of the second and concluding Test match against India at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, West Indies players donned black armbands to honor Bernard Julien, the former all-rounder who sadly passed away at the age of 75 on October 4.
"West Indies players are wearing black armbands on day one of the second Test against India as a tribute to former player Bernard Julien who passed away last week. All-rounder Julien was a member of the 1975 World Cup winning team," said Cricket West Indies (CWI) in a statement issued on Friday.
Julien was a pivotal figure in the West Indies’ cricketing ascension during the 1970s, participating in 24 Test matches where he scored 866 runs and claimed 50 wickets. In 12 ODIs, he accumulated 86 runs and took 18 wickets. He was a vital part of the West Indies team that triumphed in the inaugural Men’s ODI World Cup in 1975. Julien achieved remarkable figures of 4-20 in the group match against Sri Lanka, followed by 4-27 against New Zealand in the semi-final.
In the final against Australia, he contributed a swift 26 runs off 37 balls, helping his team secure the trophy under Clive Lloyd’s captaincy at the legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground. His playing career concluded when he joined a rebel West Indies team that toured South Africa during the apartheid period in 1982/83.
Additionally, Julien made 179 appearances for the English county team Kent between 1970 and 1977, achieving 336 wickets and scoring 3,296 runs. As the West Indies aim to evoke some of Julien's fearless spirit, they prepare to face India in the Test match in New Delhi, currently trailing 1-0 in the two-match series.
Point of View
I reflect on the profound impact Bernard Julien had on West Indies cricket. His legacy is not just in the runs and wickets but in the inspiration he provided for generations of players. The current team must channel his spirit as they face India, ensuring his contributions are never forgotten.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Bernard Julien?
Bernard Julien was a former West Indies all-rounder who played a significant role in the team during the 1970s and was part of the 1975 World Cup winning squad.
Why are West Indies players wearing black armbands?
The players are wearing black armbands to pay tribute to Bernard Julien, who passed away on October 4, 2023.
What were Julien's contributions to cricket?
Julien played 24 Test matches and 12 ODIs, contributing significantly to the West Indies' cricketing success, including their first World Cup victory.
When did Julien pass away?
Bernard Julien passed away on October 4, 2023.
What is the current Test series score between West Indies and India?
West Indies is currently trailing India 1-0 in the two-match Test series.
