Australian bowler Pat Cummins reaches for the ball on the second day of the fourth Test cricket match between South Africa and Australia won by South Africa at Wanderers cricket ground on March 31, 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa. / AFP PHOTO / GIANLUIGI GUERCIA (Photo credit should read GIANLUIGI GUERCIA/AFP/Getty Images)
Australian fast-bowler Pat Cummins has donated $50,000 to the Indian "PM Cares Fund" in a bid to help the Indian government deal with soaring COVID-19 numbers.
Currently playing in the IPL, Cummins is one of many Australian players staying over in the sub-continent to help entertain millions of Indians during this tough time.
Cummins said in a statement that he felt he owed India for all the love the country has shown him over the years.
"India is a country I've come to love dearly over the years and the people here are some of the warmest and kindest I've ever met."
Australians Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson and AJ Tye have all returned home in a bid to beat border closures with the Australian government banning all flights from India until at least May 15.
Cummins however said he was willing to stay and try and entertain IPL fans and raise spirits across the country.
"I'm advised that the Indian government is of the view that playing the IPL while the population is in lockdown provides a few hours of joy and respite each day at an otherwise difficult time for the country."
The $50,000 donation will allow Indian hospitals to purchase more oxygen supplies for people in need.
Cummins has been applauded by fellow sports people for his generous gesture.
Brett Lee joined in and contributed via crypto currency, Lee has long had a tremendous relationship with the people of India.