Coronavirus Outbreak: Australian Cricketers' Association announces relief fund for players
An Emergency Assistance Fund of $250,000 was launched by the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) for former and incumbent players. The relief fund is aimed at providing interim relief to players in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. According to ACA, the funds will bridge the gap for members, who are waiting for a financial support by the government. Here is more.
The reason behind launching Assistance Fund
Coronavirus pandemic is affecting many of our past player members, as well as the current players. To help bridge the gap for our members who are waiting on government support to be made available to them, we have launched Emergency Assistance Fund," the release read.
Kelly Applebee reveals the relevance of providing funds
ACA's General Manager Member Programs and Relations, Kelly Applebee, revealed that the fund would help those who are experiencing severe anxiety, stress and general uncertainty due to unemployment. "Over the past couple of weeks, we've spoken to several members who are doing it tough, and we've been trying to help," she said. "We've brought together a framework around the support and some significant resources."
Sports organisations in Australia are facing a financial crisis
The coronavirus outburst has led to financial crisis for the AFL, NRL and other major sports organisations in Australia. Cricket Australia has already commenced the cost-cutting measures and also delayed its national contract announcement. Sports in Australia has been marred with the crisis as the 2020 AFL season was postponed. Moreover, the T20 World Cup has been shrouded in uncertainty.
Australia imposed stern travel restrictions
The deadly COVID-19 has so far claimed over 83,000 lives globally. A number of marquee sporting events have been called-off. Earlier, the Australian Government sealed the borders, except for citizens, permanent residents and their close family members. Prime Minister Scott Morrison asserted that the travel imposed on the citizens is "indefinite" presently. Australia have reported 50 deaths with over 3,000 active cases.
