The Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) has taken a decision to grant a sum of LKR 25 million to the Government to help its efforts toward combating the Covid-19 pandemic, which has created a national health crisis. The grant will be handed over to the Government immediately.
Like any other part of the world, the deadly virus has created havoc in Sri Lanka as well, with more than 80 people have tested positive till Monday. The SLC has already suspended home series against England and ongoing domestic tournament until further notice as a precautionary measure in the wake of the deadly Coronavirus that has been spreading in the country and worldwide at a rapid pace.
“The board has unanimously decided to help our government in it’s humongous task in fighting against the deadly disease. The proposal was sent to the board ExCo members yesterday via email and within few hours, everyone agreed to donate the money for the good cause” a top SLC administrator told Cricket Age.
“Our national players are constantly supporting the fight against the Covid-19 via their Social Media Platforms requesting the fans to remain safe. The SLC also wishes to take this opportunity to commend the Government, health and other government officials, the Sri Lanka Armed Forces, Police and all relevant parties engaged in doing its utmost best to help the nation recover from the ongoing health crisis. Whilst, the SLC also wishes to request our valued stakeholders, such as the member clubs, District and Provincial Associations to take all precautionary steps to ensure that they remain safe at this moment of time” SLC said in a statement on Monday.
Sporting events have taken a hit across the globe; among others, the NBA have suspended their season until further notice, ATP tournaments in California stand cancelled, and the Bahrain Grand Prix will be closed to spectators. On cricket front, the India-South Africa and the New Zealand-Australia ODI series and all other cricketing events have already been called off.
“Right now, Cricket is not in our minds. At the moment, we wants our country to fight and succeed against the outbreak. In future as well, the board is ready to help in any capacity to support our government, our people. The theme of Sri Lanka Cricket is “One team, one nation” and it is the time to prove that we all are united” the to administrator added further.
The country remains under curfew till Monday, with Colombo, Puttalam and Gampaha to be under curfew till Tuesday morning. Other areas will get a break 0600 to shop and get food. There were now 45 quarantine centers run by the military of which 41 was run by the army, 02 by the Sri Lanka Air Force and 01 by the Navy.
