The second day of the ongoing fourth Test between India and Australia will begin on a poignant note. The Australian players will take the field wearing black arm bands on Friday (March 10) to honour their skipper Pat Cummins’ mother Maria who passed away following a battle with cancer.
Pat Cummins returned home following the second Test in Delhi to be with his mother. He was expected to return to India before the third Test but decided against it. He also decided to skip the ongoing game to stay with his mother as she fought a valiant fight against cancer in palliative care.
As per reports in Australian media, Pat Cummins informed teammates and friends of the news on Thursday night. The Australian Cricket team issued a statement confirming the news.
“We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family and their friends. The Australian Men’s team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect,” stated the statement.
Australia in driver’s seat:
Talking about the ongoing Test, Australia have put themselves in a strong position thanks to a stunning unbeaten century from Usman Khawaja. The left-handed batsman led Australia’s charge with the bat on day one with an unbeaten knock of 104 as the visitors finished the day on 255 for 4.
Cameron Green also played a crucial knock for the visitors and was unbeaten on 49 at stumps. He and Khawaja joined hands when Australia lost two wickets in a space of 19 runs to find themselves 4 down for 170 from 151 for 2. From thereon, they ensure that their team did not lose any more wicket. Australia will be looking to score big in the first innings.