England players made sure to pay their respect to the war deads by wearing poppies on the collars of their shirts. Before the resumption of third day’s play of the first Test against India at Rajkot, the English cricketers came out wearing the poppies on their kits and observed a minute’s silence to mark the Armistice Day. Every year, 11th November is commemorated as Armistice Day to mark the end of the first World War.

The step taken by Alastair Cook’s men is a commendable one especially when the footballers of their country have been barred by the FIFA to wear the poppy.The apex body of the game has warned the England football team that they will have to face consequences if they wear poppies as the governing body doesn’t allow teams to wear political, commercial or religious symbols.

However, as per the rules of ICC, the English cricket team is allowed to endorse three charitable causes each year which let them wear the poppies during the Test.

Speaking about the gesture before the third day’s play, Cook had said:“It’s important for the national team to pay their respects.

“We want to show our appreciation and thank all of our Armed Forces personnel for the fantastic work they do, and their families who support them.We are proud to support the Royal British Legion and the Poppy Appeal,” he added.