Dubai: Delhi Capitals through its digital initiative ‘Salaam Dilli‘, recognised the contribution of some frontline workers from Delhi NCR due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this year, as the deadly novel coronavirus gripped the world, countless frontline workers risked their lives for the sake of others, with their selfless efforts. Delhi Capitals took this initiative as a small token of gratitude to them.
Inspired and humbled by the efforts of those courageous citizens, the Delhi Capitals’ official match jersey in the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will bear the ‘Thank You COVID Warriors’ message for the entire duration of this season.
On Thursday (September 17), members of the Delhi Capitals squad, including CEO Dhiraj Malhotra, Assistant Coach Mohammad Kaif, and senior players Ishant Sharma and Amit Mishra, interacted with the COVID heroes through a virtual meet. On the occasion, the participants also unboxed a surprise delivery package, which comprised a letter of gratitude and personalised jerseys on behalf of the Delhi Capitals franchise.
Whatever we do for our COVID Warriors is not going to be comparable in any way to what they've done for society 🙌🏻
— Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from 🇦🇪) (@DelhiCapitals) September 17, 2020
But here's an attempt to put a smile on their faces, with a heartfelt 'Salaam' and a special surprise 💙#SalaamDilli #YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/KnMoDtZWLV
Pacer Ishant said, “Throughout the pandemic, frontline workers have dedicated themselves to protecting our population. To all the sanitation workers, doctors, security forces, blood donors, social workers, drivers, and their respective families – this small token of thanks from our team is testament of your service towards humanity.”
“It is heartening to see youngsters like Nikarika working and supporting people during these difficult times. Words are not enough to thank these COVID warriors. A big Salaam from all of us for you. As our world continues to battle and survive this pandemic, it’s efforts like yours that will continue to inspire, and make a difference,” added spinner Mishra.
Under the ‘Salaam Dilli‘ initiative, Delhi Capitals featured the following COVID warriors from the city:
1. Manika Bhadwar: Fed underprivileged people through her own kitchen.
2. Pomilla Gupta: Ran a kitchen for stray dogs during the lockdown.
3. Sourav Das and Laxmi Das: Distributed home-made masks for free, installed mask vending machines in public places.
4. Atul Gogia: Stood at the frontline to treat COVID patients.
5. Niharika Dwivedi: Donated personal savings to buy air tickets for a family of migrant workers.
6. Amit Phogat and Ravinder Dharwal: Delhi Police constables who donated, and ran a plasma donation network.
Former India cricketer Kaif stated, “It takes real selflessness, humility and desire to be able to put others first in this battle for survival. Therefore, I would like to express my huge gratitude to all of you for making the world a better place. I want to salute you, the real warriors, on behalf of the DC family.”
Delhi Capitals named Anrich Nortje as a replacement for England all-rounder Chris Woakes ahead of IPL 2020. Delhi and Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) will face off each other in their first match on September 20 in Dubai.
