In their ongoing 2023 World Cup match versus India, Sri Lankan players are wearing black armbands. The Kusal Mendis-led team is remembering the late Uncle Percy, a Sri Lanka cricket enthusiast who died on October 30.
Percy Abeysekera, often known as Uncle Percy, was a huge supporter of the Sri Lankan cricket team. For the past five decades, he has routinely attended their matches. During the Asia Cup last month, he was battling sickness, which ultimately led to his death.
Uncle Percy will always have a unique place in the history of cricket in Sri Lanka, since he is often regarded as the first superfan of the sport. In remembrance of him, the Sri Lankan players are wearing black armbands.
Sri Lankan players to wear black armbands as tribute to Uncle Percy: Sri Lanka players will wear black armbands during today s game vs. India to pay tribute to the late Percy Abeysekera, the legendary cheerleader. MORE.. https://t.co/krWFoJAgRE pic.twitter.com/OzU8ekcIpL
— LankaOnline (@LankaOnline) November 2, 2023
In the encounter between Sri Lanka and India, the islanders won the toss and chose to bat first in Mumbai. They have made one alteration to their lineup, with Dhananjaya de Silva being replaced by Dushan Hemantha.
Sri Lankan Captain Kusal Mendis Vows to Win World Cup Match against India
Sri Lanka has participated in six games in the 2023 World Cup’s group stage, earning two victories and suffering four defeats. Their current situation is crucial. During the coin flip, captain Kusal Mendis discussed his team’s effort and expressed:
“Wicket is really good, but it looks better to bat on in the second innings. We are putting in our best effort and hope to make the most of the game today. We want to win today’s game for sure and are definitely looking forward to reaching the semi-finals.”
Kusal Mendis
India won all their matches against Sri Lanka this year, 5-0 in ODIs. Everyone is eager to find out if Sri Lanka can break this losing cycle.