The England v South Africa cricket Test has seen the first full, official televised rendition of God Save the King at a sporting event.
The anthem was sung ahead of play beginning at the Oval on Saturday morning. The match was given the go-ahead to finally begin following Queen Elizabeth II's death on Thursday.
A military guard of honour was formed before the players entered the field and a minute's silence was impeccably observed by the packed stadium. A single bell was then chimed by the highest ranking military officer at the Oval.
Read more: Queen told off Lewis Hamilton after he broke key rule during Palace lunch
Singer Laura Wright performed the emotional anthem which was followed by a prolonged, spontaneous round of applause by the thousands in attendance. Those cheers grew louder as a tribute image to the Queen was shown inside the ground.
Sky sport commentator Michael Atherton said on air: "An extraordinary moment that was to reflect on a life of incredible service. A very moving and special moment."
Many fans of other sports have expressed their belief football and Welsh rugby made the wrong decision by calling off all games after witnessing the emotional scenes.
Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker said: "Given the wonderful and moving scenes at The Oval, it feels a real shame that football is not taking place this weekend, therefore missing the opportunity to pay its respects."
Fans were warned ahead of the event that anyone wearing fancy dress, as is often seen at England cricket matches, would be politely turned away. All removable advertising was also taken from the ground before play began.
God Save The King will now be sung ahead of England and Great Britain sporting events going forward following King Charles' accession.
Ahead of the match, England captain Ben Stokes said: "It’s been very sad news for not only the nation but the world with the Queen’s passing. She was someone who dedicated her life to the nation, someone that we take incredible inspiration from and we are honoured to be able to walk out on the field in memory of the Queen.
"We know how much the Queen loved this sport, and the show must go on. I’m sure she’ll be looking down on all the sport that’s still going ahead over this weekend and that we’re going out there in her honour. I’m very pleased and proud we can do that."
Read next:
- Schools and colleges in Wales to stay open until the Queen’s funeral
- King Charles to visit Wales within days as major preparations begin
- Huw Edwards put in a remarkable shift announcing Queen's death
- The title 'Prince of Wales' should disappear, says senior Welsh politician
- Prince Harry and Meghan pay tribute to the Queen with simple message
