Revealed: Why England team are wearing black arm-bands in the 1st Ashes 2023 test against Australia

England team were seen wearing black arm-bands on day 1 of the first Ashes 2023 test against Australia in Birmingham.

The much-awaited Ashes series between England and Australia has begun with the first test is underway at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Australia thrashed England 4-0 in the last Ashes at home. Thus, with a totally new approach, it will be a great chance for Ben Stokes and his men to take the revenge and retained the Ashes.

Ahead of the start of the game, both teams were seen wearing black arm bands and took a one minute silence for those, who lost their lives in the Nottingham attack. It was a tribute by both teams to the victims of the van and stabbing attack took place in the English city. Not just the English men's team, even the English women's team will also wear black bands during the first Ashes test. The Women One-Off test is scheduled to take place between June 22 and 26 in Nottingham.

Ashes 2023: "The deeply distressing scenes witnessed in Nottingham"- England's Captain Ben Stokes

Speaking about the tragedy, the English captain Ben Stokes said, "The deeply distressing scenes witnessed in Nottingham this week have brought immense sorrow to everyone, particularly the cherished friends and families of the victims."

A total of three people were died in the incidents and one was left in very serious conditions in the attack. Grace Kumar was one of the victims, had also represented England U-18 in Hockey and also played for Woodford Wells Cricket Club. His fellow student Barnaby Webber was also keen to pursue his cricket career further.

Speaking of the game, Stokes won the toss and decided to bat first. England tried to apply their "bazball" approach and opener Zak Crawley smashed a boundary off the very first ball of the series from Pat Cummins. Stokes has led England to 12 victories in 17 tests he has captained with his aggressive approach with head coach Brendon McCullum. Meanwhile, Australia picked Josh Hazlewood in place of Mitchell Starc.