IPL 2026: Why Punjab Kings wore black armbands against Rajasthan Royals

Players of Punjab Kings took the field wearing black armbands during their Indian Premier League 2026 clash against Rajasthan Royals on Tuesday, paying tribute to the late mother of teammate Azmatullah Omarzai.

The Afghanistan all-rounder suffered a personal loss earlier this week, with news of his mother’s passing emerging on Monday. While Omarzai has not yet featured in a match this season, he remains part of the Punjab squad, and the franchise’s gesture underlined the sense of unity within the camp.

Live Score: PBKS vs RR, IPL 2026

Team stands in solidarity
Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer expressed the team’s condolences at the toss, highlighting the emotional reason behind the tribute. “On behalf of the whole team, I just want to share our heartfelt condolences to Azmat and his family for his loss. I’m sure we are there to support him through thick and thin,” he said.

The gesture was a mark of respect, with players across the XI wearing black armbands as a sign of mourning — a long-standing tradition in sport to honour the departed.

Support for Omarzai also poured in from the wider cricketing fraternity. Fellow Afghanistan players Mohammad Nabi and Karim Janat shared heartfelt messages, offering prayers and strength to the grieving family.

Emotional backdrop to high-scoring contest
Despite the sombre context, Punjab produced a strong performance with the bat, posting an imposing 222/4 in their 20 overs. A late onslaught, which saw 55 runs come off the final three overs, shifted momentum firmly in their favour.

Earlier, the openers provided a brisk start, taking advantage of inconsistent lines from Rajasthan’s pace attack. While Jofra Archer tested the batters with pace and bounce, the hosts capitalised at the death, with a blistering cameo ensuring a commanding total.

Omarzai, 25, is regarded as a promising all-rounder, having previously represented Gujarat Titans before joining Punjab. Across his IPL career, he has contributed with both bat and ball and remains a valued member of the squad.