During an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 clash on Sunday (May 15), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) players wore black armbands as mark of respect for former Australia's one of the greatest all-rounders Andrew Symonds, who died in a car accident outside Townsville in Queensland on Saturday (May 14) night.
The 46-year-old is survived by his wife and two young children. Symonds played in the IPL for now-defunct Deccan Chargers and Mumbai Indians in the final stages of his career. Playing for the Chargers, he had slammed a 53-ball 117 not out against Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural edition in 2008.
Symonds' death continues a devastating year for Australian cricket, after the passing of legends Rod Marsh and Shane Warne from heart attacks in March.
An attacking batter, who could also bowl both medium pace and spin and an outstanding fielder, Symonds featured in 26 Tests, 198 ODIs and 14 T20Is in a successful career between 1998 and 2009.
He helped Australia win the ODI world Cups in 2003 and 2007 and was one of the key members of Australia's Test side in the 2000s.
Meanwhile, as far as match is concerned CSK were restricted to 133/5 in their 20 overs as GT bowlers, led by Mohammed Shami bowled superbly in the end overs.
GT bowlers stuck back nicely to remove Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube in quick succession. CSK's Ruturaj Gaikwad played some good shots from one end and completed a well-deserved half-century.
GT bowlers dominated the game earlier with wickets of Moeen Ali and Devon Conway. Mohammed Shami removed Devon Conway early, as CSK went 1 wicket down in the third over. Chennai Super Kings captain MS Dhoni won the toss and opted to bat against GT at the Wankhede Stadium.
Gujarat have already qualified for the playoffs and they would hope to finish within top two to enhance their chances of making it to the finals. Talking about CSK, the MS Dhoni-led side are at the ninth spot in the points table and they would look to end their season on a high.
A day before the match, Ambati Rayudu had announced that the ongoing season would be last IPL, but he later deleted the tweet. It will be interesting to see how Rayudu performs in the match against Gujarat.
