CNN
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For the first time in 70 years, ‘God Save the King’ is being sung on sports grounds across the UK as tributes to Queen Elizabeth II continue two days after her death.
Ahead of day three of the England v South Africa Test match at the Kia Oval in London, players and coaches wore black armbands and a minute’s silence was observed to honor the Queen.
Shortly after, after the sound of a bell in the cricket ground, there were performances of the anthems of both countries. According to PA Media, it was the first time “God Save the King” had been sung at a televised sporting event.
With the series tied at 1-1, the litmus test was canceled on Friday in light of the Queen’s death and play resumed on Saturday. Branded adverts have been removed from the Oval and replaced with messages paying tribute to the Queen.
“Her Majesty has been such a great supporter of the game and has always expressed forcefully the pleasure she and her late husband have around the sport,” said Richard Thompson, Chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board.
“His devotion to his country will never be forgotten. For his service and selflessness during his extraordinary reign, we owe him a debt that can never be repaid.
England captain Ben Stokes said Friday that he would be “honoured” to play in memory of the Queen given that she “loved the sport”.
A rendition of “God Save the King” was also sung by players and supporters during the Super League semi-final between Huddersfield Giants and Salford Red Devils at Huddersfield.
On Saturday, King Charles III was officially proclaimed the UK’s new monarch, pledging to “follow the inspiring example” of his mother.
