Thaindian News

London, Aug 23(ANI): Pakistan and England have dedicated a proportion of their match fees from the third Test at The Oval towards the flood relief efforts in Pakistan.

The ‘worst floods in Pakistan’s history’ have displaced 20 million people, and submerged one-fifth of the country.

In addition to causing major human loses, it has destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes, washed away crops and livestock.

“We have already donated a percentage of our match fees. This is the only way we can give back to the Pakistan people if we perform well,” The News quoted Salman Butt, Pakistan skipper, as saying.

England skipper Andrew Strauss said: “It’s a massive humanitarian catastrophe out there and we’re trying to help as much as we can and the more people who do that the better.

Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had donated over 11.42 million rupees as aid to help the victims of the devastating deluge.The donation to the Prime Minister’s relief fund was made jointly by PCB chairman Ijaz Butt, the board’s staff and players.

A statement issued by the PCB had said that it was working towards drumming up more support for the affected people through international exhibition matches.

“PCB is working on a proposal along with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to organise an exhibition cricket match for the benefit of the millions of Pakistanis affected by the devastating floods in Pakistan,” the statement had said. Star all rounder Shahid Afridi has also launched a campaign, and is touring flood-affected areas to distribute funds, food and other relief materials. (ANI)