World’s highest wicket taker Muttiah Muralitharan has made a generous contribution of Rs. Five million to Government’s efforts to fight COVID-19 epidemic. With the country at a standstill following the island wide curfew, the government has too many things at its hand and Murali hopes his contribution would somewhat ease the burden.
“At this hour, the government can not look at every thing. So it is important that those who can like us help the government in whatever the way we can. I hope others too will support the government in their effort to fight this epidemic,” Muralitharan told The Island.
“I would like to urge cricket fans and all Sri Lankans to follow instructions given by authorities. Most important thing is stay at home. Don’t panic. The next week or so is going to be crucial. There will be shortcomings but we have to adjust,” Murali added.
“I am proud of the way we have fought this crisis. The government, the doctors, the military and all public servants have done a remarkable job. Look at the way some of the developed countries struggling to fight this epidemic. We should all support them by being disciplined and staying at home,” Muralitharan added.
Cricketers have been taking an active role in helping the poor and the needy since the time curfew was imposed.
The members of the national cricket team donated generously to buy equipment needed for General Hospital to treat Covid-19 patients. Former great Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene teamed up to give away dry rations and other essentials while World Cup winners Roshan Mahanama and Chaminda Vaas teamed up with a group of doctors in distributing dry rations.
Fast bowler Suranga Lakmal visited Dambulla area to give away dry rations to those in need.
Another fast bowler Dhammika Prasad has been actively involved in Gampaha and Colombo districts. Last week, he distributed dry rations for one week among 1000 families and this week he has widened the network by targetting 2000 families.
So many other players have helped families and individuals as well.
