As ferocious bushfires claimed human lives, properties and wildlife across Australia, sports stars and fans in India have mobilised support to help the bushfire-ravaged communities.
A strong show of support was witnessed from cricket fans in India during the recently-concluded three-match One Day International series between Australia and India.
During the second match in Rajkot last week, several fans were spotted raising placards with the message “Pray for Australia.”
Acknowledging the support, Australian paceman Pat Cummins said the scale of devastation has had a “massive impact” around the globe.
“It's crazy, you see social media everywhere in the world, people in America, England and then you come over here and everyone is talking about the bushfires.
"It was really nice of the crowd (in Rajkot), seeing a few signs acknowledging that,” said Cummins.
He added that cricket plays an important role in the India-Australia relationship.
"Whenever we hear the politicians or people talk about India-Australia relationships, it always comes back to cricket and it shows the deep connection we have,” said Cummins.
Australia's Jhye Richardson and Pat Cummins at the crease during a match against India. Source: AAP
The retired star batsman will coach the Ponting XI, a team led by Ricky Ponting for a charity match being organised to raise funds for the Australian Red Cross' Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund.
He will be joined by West Indies' former speedster Courtney Walsh who will be coaching the other side led by Shane Warne for a match slated for February 8.
"We are absolutely honoured to be welcoming Sachin and Courtney back to Australia where they both enjoyed a lot of success as players, and we can't wait to have them involved in what is going to be a special day," said Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts.
The ongoing crisis has also elicited help from Hockey India, the governing body of the sport in the country.
The board has donated USD 25,000 to the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal while also providing Hockey Australia with two jerseys signed by the Indian men's and women's hockey teams to auction with all proceeds going towards helping the bushfire victims.
Responding to the gesture, president of Hockey Australia, Melanie Woosnam extended her gratitude to her Indian counterpart, Mushtaque Ahmad and the federation for their “wonderful support.”
Mr Ahmad said the hockey community in India has been "overwhelmed" by the devastating fires in Australia.
"With this small contribution on behalf of Hockey India and the Indian hockey community we want to offer our heartfelt support to the cause and to Hockey Australia's initiative," he added.
