Syed Kirmani pledges to donate eyes but retracts later

Syed Kirmani, former Indian cricketer left everyone amused as he pledged to donate eyes but retracted his statement. In an awareness event organized by Rotary Club of Madras and Rotary Rajan Eye Bank, Kirmani pledged his eyes to the organization and asked everyone to do the same. However, the ex-cricketer retracted from his promise very soon.

He later stated that he cannot donate eyes due to religious beliefs. The 1983 World Cup winning team member was a sensation behind the stumps for India. Syed featured in 88 Tests and 49 One-Day Internationals for the national team. His association with the blind cricket team of India motivated Kirmani to participate in the noble cause.

“I am donating my eyes, you too donate your eyes. The thought of donating your eyes only comes when you have come of age. Rajan is doing a yeoman service by helping others see the light of the world and I realized the importance of this cause. If more known faces like us come forward for this cause, it would be really helpful,” said the former Indian cricketer in the event.

I am an emotional person and can’t donate eyes

However, the 68-year-old said he cannot fulfil his pledge. He said that he is a very emotional person and cannot donate his eyes due to religious beliefs.

“I am an emotional and sentimental person. I was so touched by Rajan’s initiative that I pledged to donate my eyes. However, I might not be able to honor my commitment due to some religious values,” Kirmani told.

“And not everyone in India honors their pledge. But it shouldn’t deter others from coming forward to donate their eyes,” he added.  Syed Kirmani has been associated with the Indian blind side as he was invited to give a pep talk to inspire them.

The former keeper-batsman stated that his association with the blind cricket team motivated him to donate eyes.

“I was invited to give them a pep talk before they departed for Dubai. I saw their dedication and determination and was pleasantly surprised. That encouraged me to join the cause of donating eyes. I will also be flying to Dubai to inspire the team further,” he quoted.

On the other hand, many cricketers have already pledged to donate their eyes. Sunil Gavaskar, Adam Gilchrist, Ravi Ashwin, and Kapil Dev are amongst the ones who’ve joined this noble cause.