Nicholas Pooran to donate part of IPL salary to Covid-19 crisis fund

Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins was the first player to announce that he would be making a financial contribution to the cause

West Indies batsman Nicholas Pooran has pledged to donate part of his Indian Premier League earnings towards the fight against the coronavirus pandemic in India.

The left-hander, who has managed only 28 runs in five innings for Punjab Kings – a streak that has included three ducks, explained in a tweet that he would be contributing to the effort against Covid-19, adding further detail in a video.

“Although many other countries are still being affected by the pandemic, the situation in India right now is particularly severe,” he wrote. “I will do my part to bring awareness and financial assistance to this dire situation.”

In the follow-up video, he said: “Although many other countries are still being affected by the pandemic, the situation in India right now is particularly severe. I will do my part to bring awareness and financial assistance to this dire situation.

“To all my fans and supporters, I realise I am in a safe and privileged position here in India at the IPL. But it is heart-breaking to be so close to the tragedy that is surrounding us. I would like to donate a portion of my IPL salary towards this crisis in India.”

Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins was the first player to announce that he would be making a financial contribution to the cause, donating $50,000 (£28,041).

He wrote: “As players, we are privileged to have a platform that allows us to reach millions of people that we can use for good.

“With that in mind, I have made a contribution to the 'PM Cares Fund,' specifically to purchase oxygen supplies for India's hospitals.

“I encourage my fellow IPL players - and anyone around else the world who has been touched by India's passion and generosity - to contribute.”

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