Honouring Late Superfan Uncle Percy: Sri Lankan Cricketers
When Sri Lankan cricketers faced India in the World Cup 2023 on November 2, they did so with black armbands on, a heartfelt gesture of respect and gratitude. This solemn act was made in remembrance of the late Percy Abeysekera, also referred to as Uncle Percy, who was a great player in Sri Lankan cricket. Uncle Percy, who had been an avid cricket fan for more than 40 years, died on October 30 at the age of 87. He made a lasting impression on the cricket community with his unshakable love for the game.
The Legacy of a Superfan
It was well before Sri Lanka's famous victory in the 1996 World Cup that Uncle Percy became an avid cricket fan. His commitment to the game was unmatched. He was spotted walking around the Lahore stadium during celebrations, raising the Sri Lankan flag in the air to mark the country's first-ever World Cup victory. Cricket fans all throughout the world may still clearly recall those unforgettable images.
As a Sign of Respect, Black Armbands
The Sri Lankan cricket team decided to wear black armbands during their match against the Indian squad at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as a way to pay tribute to Uncle Percy. The players' profound thanks and respect for the late cricket legend were expressed through this gesture. Uncle Percy made a substantial contribution, which was acknowledged by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). They wrote on Twitter, "Abeysekera was an integral part of the game of cricket in Sri Lanka and did play a pivotal role from beyond the boundary line to support and motivate the players." From the days before tests until now, his legacy will always hold a special place in the hearts of cricket fans.
International Fan Icon
Not everyone was unaware of Uncle Percy's passion for cricket. Cricket players throughout admired and respected him. Uncle Percy was so passionate about cricket that in the 1980s, legendary New Zealander Martin Crowe gave him one of his Player of the Match awards. It demonstrated how this Sri Lankan superfan's passion for the game knew no geographical bounds.
Tribute to Rohit Sharma
The Indian cricket player Rohit Sharma, who had visited Uncle Percy at the Asia Cup 2023, gave one of the most touching tributes. The death of Uncle Percy, the man Rohit referred to as his "No. 1 supporter," struck him deeply. He remembered Uncle Percy's important contribution to the cricketing fraternity and termed his passing as a terrible loss.
Symbiotic Honours
India had earlier honoured the late great cricketer Bishan Singh Bedi during their match against England in a similar spirit of remembrance. These respectful gestures reveal the significant influence that legendary cricket players have on both players and supporters.
Conclusion
Not just a piece of cloth, the black armbands the Sri Lankan cricket players wore during their World Cup 2023 match against India represented respect, thanks, and a sincere farewell to a cherished superfan who had a lasting impression on the sport of cricket. Uncle Percy's undying passion for the game left a lasting imprint in the hearts of everyone he touched. Cricket fans everywhere will always remember his memory.
