From Sourav Ganguly To Chennai Super Kings; Cricket Fraternity Comes Together For Jacob Martin

46-year-old former Ranji Trophy winning batsman, Jacob Martin is in a critical condition at a Vadodara hospital after a horrible two-wheeler road accident on December 28. His wife had written to the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) seeking immediate financial aid. Responding to their assistance request, BCCI had sanctioned Rs. 5 lakh. Saurav Ganguly, former Captain, Indian Cricket Team has extended a helping hand to his teammate’s family.

From Sourav Ganguly to Krunal Pandya

Former Indian Cricket Team Captain, Sourav Ganguly has come forward to help his ex-teammate, Jacob Martin. Ganguly, who was Martin’s first India captain, spoke to his wife Khayati on Monday before he effected a bank transfer, reports The Times of India. According to the newspaper, he has also conveyed to Mrs Martin’s family not to hesitate in seeking any kind of further assistance.

“Martin and I have been teammates and I remember him as a quiet, introvert-type of person. While praying for Martin’s speedy recovery, I’d like his family to know that they don’t stand alone,” Ganguly was quoted saying by The Greater Kashmir.

Cricketer Hardik Pandya’s elder brother, Krunal Pandya has also joined the squad after he left a blank cheque to former BCCI secretary, Sanjay Patel, saying, “Sir, please fill up whatever is needed, but nothing less than Rupees one lakh”.

Former Baroda Cricket Association secretary Sanjay Patel was among the first one to render help. He got in touch with other members of cricket fraternity urging them to help. He was cheered up by the unconditional support by the fraternity members.

“It’s overwhelming that Zaheer Khan, Yusuf and Irfan Pathan, Munaf Patel, Sourav and Ravi, among others, have come forward to extend a helping hand in this time of distress for Martin’s family,” Patel said. Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings also contributed Rs 3 lakh for the treatment of the ailing cricketer.

Regarding the same, CSK CEO K S Viswanathan said ” Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited transferred a sum of Rs three lakh towards the medical expenses of Martin. We got it touch with Baroda Cricket Association officials to understand his financial situation. We hope and pray for his speedy recovery,” reported Times Now.

Jacob played between 1999-2001

Jacob Martin scored 158 runs at an average of 22.57 in 10 one-day international matches, playing for the national team between 1999 and 2001. Martin played five matches when Saurav Ganguly was spearheading the Indian Cricket Team.

In the domestic fold, Martin featured in 138 First-class matches followed by 101 List-A games and two Twenty20s. He maintained an average of 46.65 in 227 first-class outings after amassing 9192. He smashed 23 hundreds and 47 half-centuries under his belt.

Under his captaincy, he got Baroda’s team, its first Ranji Trophy title in 2000-2001 season.

The Logical Indian appreciates the entire fraternity coming together to help their friend in need. This shows immense strength and support amongst the players. Cricket truly is a gentleman’s game.

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