Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar
Image Courtesy: Getty

Indian legends Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar in association with Indian Cricketers Association (ICA) have pledged to support the ‘needy players’ amid the nation-wide lockdown, president Ashok Malhotra said. According to media reports, the ICA has already raised Rs. 39 lakh for players in need during this crisis situation.

Former India opener turned politician Gautam Gambhir has also joined the cause and made financial contributions from his side. Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin has also pledged to support the cause in every way possible. It is in a first, that established cricketers, have come out in support of players in dire need.

Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir (Credits: Twitter)

Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar have joined us: ICA president

Apart from Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar, Gautam Gambhir and Gundappa Viswanath have also joined the initiative taken by the ICA. According to reports, the ICA will continue to accept donations till May 15, following which it will shortlist 5-6 cricketers from each zone (north, east, west, south and central).

“Big names like Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Gautam Gambhir and Gundappa Viswanath have joined us and that is a major boost to our initiative. A corporate from Gujarat has also offered its support,” Malhotra told PTI.

Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, World Cup 1983
Kapil Dev of India batting during his innings of 175 not out in the Prudential World Cup group match between India and Zimbabwe at the Nevill Ground, Tunbridge Wells, 18th June 1983. The wicketkeeper for Zimbabwe is Dave Houghton. (Photo by Patrick Eagar/Popperfoto/Getty Images)