KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Shahid Khan Afridi has gone beyond borders to extend a helping hand to the people of Bangladesh amidst the crisis triggered by the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Bangladesh star wicket-keeper/batsman Mushfiqur Rahim had put his bat, with which he scored the first-ever double century for Bangladesh in 2013 against Sri Lanka, on auction and it has been obtained by Afridi for US$20,000.

Talking to this correspondent from Dhaka, Mushfiqur paid rich tribute to Afridi for extending support to a noble cause.

“I give a lot of credit to Shahid bhai who approached and offered help. In crisis situation we are united beyond borders and this is what we are showing to our respective countrymen,” Mushfiqur said.

Afridi, who has mostly been traveling countrywide since the outbreak of this pandemic, was of the opinion that it was not about the nationality, it was about the cause.

“I enjoyed his company on the field either by playing against or with him. I think people from other walks of lives should also come forward and help,” added Mushfiqur.

He said he will deliver the bat to Afridi via courier service in few days.

“I always receive a lot of love and warmth from the people of Bangladesh. When I came to know about Mushfiqur’s drive I contacted him to contribute in my capacity,” Afridi, who has turned philanthropist, told this correspondent. “By such gestures of help and respect people of the two countries could come close.”

Published in Dawn, May 16th, 2020