I knew I would get the disease as I was travelling a lot for charity work: Shahid Afridi

A few days back, the cricket fraternity got the information that Shahid Afridi had contracted the novel coronavirus. The news was surprising and he was the first popular cricketer to have got the virus. On Wednesday, the former Pakistan captain uploaded a video message on Facebook in which he addressed his health issues and also spoke to his fans.

Initially, there were many fake reports on social media that Afridi was put on a ventilator. Afridi in the video message talked about his initial struggles with the disease and how he was suffering. He revealed that the first few days were really tough for him. However, he also said that his health has been improving day by day now.

“I wanted to make this video as I have been hearing a lot about my health on social media since the past few days. First, 2-3 days were really tough for me but my condition has been improving in the past few days,” Afridi said in a video message posted on Facebook. “There is no need to panic about this. Till you yourself don’t fight a disease, you cannot beat it. These days were hard for me as well.”

I am unable to take care of my children, love and hug them: Shahid Afridi

In an emotional video, the former Pakistan captain expressed his sadness for not being able to be around his children. However, the cricketer also urged everyone to take precautions if someone has contracted the virus. The former all-rounder then went on to talk about how he might have got the virus.

Speaking on this, the cricketer said that he knew he would get it as he was travelling all over Pakistan trying to help the poor people. His foundation, Shahid Afridi Foundation has been attached with many important works during this global pandemic. The foundation has provided necessary food items and also helped out poor people with essentials.

“The biggest concern for me over the last 8-9 days is that I am unable to take care of my children, love and hug them. I miss my children. But it is important to take precautions to keep yourself safe and others safe. I knew I would get the disease as I was travelling a lot for charity work. Thankfully, it didn’t happen in the beginning as if it had happened early, I would have been able to help people, send them essential supplies,” Afridi said.

The dashing all-rounder then thanked all his fans for wishing him a speedy recovery. “Thank you for all your well wishes. It gives me immense pleasure to know that I have so many people praying for me in Pakistan and outside Pakistan. Thank you for your support,” Afridi added.

Watch the video: