SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 07: Pat Cummins of Australia hands over his pink cap to Glenn McGrath during day four of the Third Test match in the series between Australia and South Africa at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 07, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
Australian Test skipper Pat Cummins has expressed his immense gratitude to English fans for their touching show of support for his mother, Maria, who is severely ill and currently in palliative care.
The Barmy Army's tribute, which occurred during the second Test between England and New Zealand, was a stirring trumpet rendition of 'Maria' from West Side Story.
After learning of his mother's deteriorating condition, Cummins departed Australia's base in India and will not participate in the third Test in Indore.
Upon witnessing footage of the English's heartful act, Cummins took to Twitter to show thanks.
"This is amazing @TheBarmyArmy, thank you. Mum loved watching this and felt very touched," Cummins tweeted on Monday.
Batting star Steve Smith is set to captain Australia in the third Test, which will commence on Wednesday, in Cummins' absence.