Azharuddin pledges to contribute Rs 10 lakh for former cricketers due to COVID-19 lockdown

The Indian Cricketers Association (ICA) has raised Rs 24 lakh to help around 30 former players who are in dire need of funds amid the ongoing nationwide lockdown, a drive that has also found support from former captain Mohammed Azharuddin.

The decision to help the needy cricketers was taken at an ICA online meeting last Wednesday, its second since the coronavirus-forced lockdown was enforced.

Former India skipper Azharuddin has pledged to donate Rs 10 lakh, while former players such as Anshuman



Gaekwad and Shanta Rangaswamy have also come forward to help with financial aid.

"This means people are connected to this initiative. And I am sure the amount will increase in the coming days so that we are able to help more players," Malhotra said.

"Till now we are saying that we will try to help 25-30 needy players but if the amount increases, then we can help more number of players. Players settled abroad have come forward in a big way."

They will continue the drive till May 16.