The Afghanistan players are wearing black armbands for the one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Harare, which began on October 20. Here's why.
Afghanistan's players were spotted with black armbands when they came out for the national anthems at Harare, raising curiosity. Such gestures are common in sports to pay tribute to someone renowned who has passed away, or to victims of a tragedy.
Before this, the most recent occurrence was when West Indies took the field for the Delhi Test against India in early October to commemorate the passing of former player Bernard Julien.
Why Afghanistan players wear black armbands on day one of the Zimbabwe Test?
On Saturday, three cricketers from Paktika province in Afghanistan were among several killed amid the country’s armed conflict with Pakistan. The Afghanistan Cricket Board issued a strong statement, describing the incident as a "cowardly attack carried out by the Pakistani regime". In protest, they withdrew from the upcoming Pakistan tri-series, which also involved Sri Lanka. Zimbabwe were announced as a late replacement.
Statement of Condolence
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) October 17, 2025
The Afghanistan Cricket Board expresses its deepest sorrow and grief over the tragic martyrdom of the brave cricketers from Urgun District in Paktika Province, who were targeted this evening in a cowardly attack carried out by the Pakistani regime.
In… pic.twitter.com/YkenImtuVR
The International Cricket Council (ICC) expressed their solidarity at the incident too.
"The ICC strongly condemns this act of violence that has robbed families, communities, and the cricketing world of three bright talents whose only ambition was to play the sport they loved," the ICC statement added.
Afghanistan cricketers also paid tribute on social media. Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi were among the prominent names, with the latter calling it a "heinous, unforgivable crime".
On day one, Afghanistan were bowled out for 127 after Brad Evans picked up his maiden Test five-wicket haul in just his second match. In response, Zimbabwe had reached 130-2 from 38 overs by the close of play.
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
