ISLAMABAD, Dec 5: National cricket team led by skipper Inzammamul Haq Tuesday visited Federal Government Services Hospital (Polyclinic), after the first one day international between Pakistan and West Indies at Rawalpindi was called off due to heavy rain.

The players visited the children ward and inquired about the condition of patients. They also gave autograph and had pictures taken with the children whose faces lit up on seeing national heroes in their midst.

The team distributed cash among the child patients and prayed for their early recovery. They also vowed to raise funds for their treatment. Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Dr Nasim Ashraf and coach Bob Woolmer also accompanied the players.

“My delight knows no bound as I see you standing in front of me,” said Pneumonia patient Hammad, 12, while speaking to Inzamam who told him that his team instantly decided to visit them once the match was washed out earlier in the morning.

The ward in charge, Dr Asifa Murtaza, told the players that besides those admitted, a good number of child patients also visited the ward on daily basis for blood infusion.

The players also gave bouquets to the children before Medical Superintendent Dr Mohammad Javed Chaudhry saw off the team with some children barely holding back their tears. — APP