West Indies to wear Black Lives Matter logo during England Test series

The West Indies cricket team has decided to wear ‘Black
Lives Matter’ logos on their jersey during their test series with England next
month to show solidarity with the movement that has now reached a global
platform. The move comes in wake of widespread protests following the custodial
death of African American George Floyd in Minneapolis. The West Indies team
follows the lead of many athletes around the world including football players
from the English Premier League and the Bundesliga who have pledged their support
for the cause during their games.

West Indies skipper Jason Holder said that although the team
will remain focused on winning the series, there is a bigger issue that needs
to be addressed. In a statement issued by Cricket West Indies he said, “This is
a pivotal moment in history for sports, for the game of cricket ad for the West
Indies cricket team. 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.” “There must be equality and there must be unity. Until we get that
as people, we cannot stop,” added the all-rounder.

The logo, in which a clenched fist replaces the letter ’A’
in the word ‘Black’, was designed by Watford footballer Troy Deeney’s partner
Alisha Hosanna. He said that both he and Hosanna are overwhelmed by the
gesture. “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.
Premier League players put ‘Black Lives Matter’ on the back of their shirts for
the first 12 games following the restart of the league.

West Indies take on England in a three-test series starting
July 8. A four-day warm match will be played at Old Trafford on Monday.