The Indus Zone Tech Desk | IND W vs AUS W Semi-Final 2025 | In the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 second semi-final, both India and Australia’s women cricketers took the field wearing black armbands. This emotional gesture immediately caught everyone’s attention, and fans started asking—why are both teams wearing black bands?
Tribute to Young Australian Cricketer Ben Austin
The black armbands were worn to pay tribute to 17-year-old Australian cricketer Ben Austin, who tragically passed away during a practice session in Melbourne. During batting practice, a ball struck his neck and head, and despite being rushed to the hospital, he could not survive.
This heartbreaking incident has shocked the entire cricket world.
The gesture by both teams shows unity, respect, and empathy beyond the game. It proves that cricket is not just about competition—it’s also about supporting each other in difficult times.
Match Update – IND W vs AUS W Semi-Final
Australia won the toss and chose to bat first in this crucial knockout match of the Women’s World Cup 2025.
Both teams entered the field with black armbands, standing together to honor the young player’s memory.
India’s Playing XI (IND W)
Smriti Mandhana
Shafali Verma
Amanjot Kaur
Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain)
Jemimah Rodrigues
Richa Ghosh (Wicketkeeper)
Deepti Sharma
Radha Yadav
Kranti Gaur
N Sritharani
Renuka Singh
Key Changes for India
Shefali Verma returned to the playing XI.
Harleen Deol and Uma Chetry rested.
Kranti Gaur and Richa Ghosh included.
Australia’s Playing XI (AUS W)
Alyssa Healy (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
Phoebe Litchfield
Ellyse Perry
Beth Mooney
Annabel Sutherland
Ashleigh Gardner
Tahlia McGrath
Sophie Molineux
Kim Garth
Alana King
Megan Schutt
Key Update for Australia
Alyssa Healy returns to the squad.
Sophie Molineux replaces Wareham in the lineup.
Emotional Scene on the Field
Black bands on the arms of both teams reminded everyone of the fragility of life.
In sports, moments like these show that respect and humanity always come first.
The entire cricket community stands with Ben Austin’s family and teammates in this moment of grief.
