MANCHESTER (England): West Indies players will wear the Black Lives Matter logo on their playing shirts when they face England throughout the upcoming Test Series.
The decision was taken by the players and team management with the full support of Cricket West Indies (CWI).
The series starts on July 4.
The Black Lives Matter emblem was designed by Alisha Hosannah, partner of Troy Deeney, professional footballer and captain of Watford Football Club (who play in the English Premier League).
“Alisha and I are immensely proud to be asked and take part in a monumental moment in world sport, this amazing decision by the West Indies cricket team to show their support for Black Lives Matter,” said Deeney, who was contacted by CWI.
The logo has a clenched fist in place of the letter “A” in the word “Black”. It was also used on the shirts of all 20 Premier League clubs since football returned behind closed doors following the break for COVID-19.
“This is a pivotal moment in history for sports, for the game of cricket and for the West Indies cricket team,” said Windies skipper Jason Holder.
“We have come to England to retain the Wisden Trophy but we are very conscious of happenings around the world and the fight for justice and equality. We believe we have a duty to show solidarity and also to help raise awareness.”
West Indies will play England in three Test matches behind closed doors – the first at the at Ageas Bowl in Southampton and the other two at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester, where they are presently based.
Due to COVID19 they will train and live in a “bio-secure” environment as part of the comprehensive medical and operations plans to ensure player and staff safety.
