How Did IPL 2025 Players Honor the Indian Armed Forces?
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Synopsis
In a heartfelt tribute, players from Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings united to honor the Indian armed forces before their IPL 2025 match in Jaipur. This event follows a brief suspension of the league and highlights the importance of service and sacrifice within the context of competitive sports.
Key Takeaways
- Players paid tribute to the Indian armed forces before the match.
- This game marked the resumption of IPL 2025 after a suspension.
- Shreyas Iyer acknowledged the armed forces during the toss.
- The match took place at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
- Punjab Kings are vying for a top-two finish in the league.
Jaipur, May 18 (NationPress) Players from both Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings gathered to honor the Indian armed forces by participating in the national anthem prior to their IPL 2025 match at Sawai Mansingh Stadium this Sunday.
This RR-PBKS encounter marks the first major game since the IPL 2025 resumed on Saturday, following a one-week hiatus due to escalating tensions with Pakistan. The previous match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders was abandoned due to rain without a toss, dampening the excitement surrounding the IPL's return.
As a salute to the brave Indian armed forces, who consistently demonstrate their courage to ensure the safety of the nation, players united to sing the national anthem before the match commenced. A message saying, “Thank you armed forces” was displayed on the stadium screens as the anthem played.
During the toss, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer expressed gratitude to the Indian armed forces for their role in maintaining national security amidst ongoing tensions with Pakistan.
“Kudos to the Army forces who have worked for the country and made sure that we're in a comfortable position,” he stated as he chose to bat first.
Mitchell Owen, Marco Jansen, and Azmatullah Omarzai are the three overseas players representing PBKS.
Rajasthan Royals welcomed back a fully fit Sanju Samson to lead the team, replacing Nitish Rana in the playing XI. Kwena Maphaka came in for Jofra Archer.
Playing XIs
Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Wanindu Hasaranga, Kwena Maphaka, Tushar Deshpande, Akash Madhwal, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Impact Substitutes: Kumar Kartikeya, Shubham Dubey, Ashok Sharma, Kunal Singh Rathore, Yudhvir Singh Charak.
Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh(w), Shreyas Iyer(c), Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Mitchell Owen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.
Impact Substitutes: Vijaykumar Vyshak, Harpreet Brar, Praveen Dubey, Suryansh Shedge, Musheer Khan.
Punjab Kings currently sit in third place with 15 points from 11 matches and can secure a top-two finish if they win this match along with their remaining two games against the already eliminated Rajasthan Royals.
Point of View
My perspective aligns with national pride. The tribute paid by IPL players to the armed forces underscores the unity and respect we hold for those safeguarding our nation. Such moments remind us of the importance of solidarity, particularly in times of tension, and it’s crucial that sports continues to honor these values.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the IPL 2025 match suspended?
The IPL 2025 faced a one-week suspension due to escalating cross-border tensions with Pakistan.
What tribute did players pay to the armed forces?
Players from both Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings sang the national anthem together before the match as a tribute to the Indian armed forces.
What message was displayed during the anthem?
The screens displayed the message, 'Thank you armed forces' during the playing of the national anthem.
Who is the captain of Punjab Kings?
Shreyas Iyer is the captain of Punjab Kings.
What changes were made to the Rajasthan Royals squad?
Sanju Samson returned to captain the side, replacing Nitish Rana, while Kwena Maphaka came in for Jofra Archer.
