Last Updated on 4 years by Charbel Coorey

Pat Cummins donates $50,000 to aid India in COVID fight | Pat Cummins donates $50,000 to the PM Cares Fund to purchase oxygen supplies

Pat Cummins, the world’s leading Test match bowler, has donated $50,000 to the “PM Cares Fund” to help with the purchase of oxygen supplies for India’s hospitals.

India is currently battling a severe wave of COVID-19 infections, with the country reporting over one million cases over the past four days alone. Daily infection numbers are exceeding 300,000, and the health system is struggling to cope, leaving many in urgent need of medical support.

Cummins tweeted an announcement regarding his donation, which was met with messages of gratitude from many. “India is a country I’ve come to love dearly over the years and the people here are some of the warmest and kindest I’ve ever met. To know so many are suffereing so much at this time saddens me greatly,” read the initial part of the statement.

Cummins then mentioned the discussion as to whether the IPL should still go ahead in such circumstances. Three Australian players – Andrew Tye, Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa – have all left the IPL to be able to travel home.

“There has been quite a bit of discussion over here as to whether it is appropriate for the IPL to continue while COVID-19 infection rates remain high. I’m advised that the Indian Government is of the view that playing the IPL while the population is in lockdown provides a few hours of joy and respite each day at an otherwise difficult time for the country.”

The Australia and KKR fast bowler then went on to encourage others to contribute to the cause.

“As players, we are privileged to have a platform that allows us to reach millions 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 the world who has been touched by India’s passion and generosity – to contribute. I will kick it off with $50,000.”

Cummins’ generosity was met with positive responses from all parts.

One of the criticisms of the IPL has been that they haven’t properly acknowledged what’s happening outside of their bubble. Here, Cummins’ donation can pave the way for more assistance from the IPL towards India’s health crisis.