'I hope that we’re all back playing the game' - Tim Paine asks people to remain strong against Coronavirus outbreak

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has urged all fans to stand strong in the face of the coronavirus scare. The pandemic has claimed 8,000 lives worldwide and Australia remains one of the most affected countries in the Southern Hemisphere. The island-nation has reported over 360 cases of coronavirus while a minimum of five people have died so far. Paine recently shared a video of Twitter to reach out to the supporters.

Australia suspended their three-match ODI series against New Zealand at home after winning the first game because of the deadly virus. All cricketing activities have been suspended Down Under after the first ODI against the Black Caps was played behind closed doors.

The video featuring Paine addressing the people was shared on Twitter by Cricket Australia and the caption read: “In these testing times, we thank you for your patience and support. Here’s a message from your men’s skipper on behalf of Australian Cricket.”

Tim Paine defends move to suspend all cricketing action

In the video, the wicket-keeper-batsman was seen backing the decisions to cancel matches in both men’s and women’s cricket saying they have been taken in the best interests of the community.

“As hard as it is for all cricketers at the moment, I think it is time we take a break. I know it’s even harder this time of year when you’ve got finals and trophies are on the line and it’s all there to be won but this is bigger than us, bigger than the game of cricket but it’s something that needs to be taken very seriously,” the 35-year-old said.

In these testing times, we thank you for your patience and support. Here's a message from your men's skipper on behalf of Australian Cricket. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/10jlHl1wYZ

— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) March 18, 2020

“Look, I hope that we’re all back playing the game we love and going about our lives the way we want to as soon as possible but in the meantime, please take care of yourself, take care of others and let’s ride this out together. All the best!” he added.

Paine took charge of Australia at a time when the country’s cricket was in big turmoil. He struggled in the beginning and became the first Australian captain to lose a Test series to an Asian team (India) at home.

But Paine later made a good comeback to see Australia remain undefeated in an Ashes in England after 18 years and more recently, led the Aussies to a 3-0 win over New Zealand at home. So far, Paine has led Australia in 19 games of which they have won 10, lost six while three were drawn.