The International Cricket Council (ICC) has hailed India's cricketer-turned cop Joginder Sharma as ‘Real world hero’ for doing his bit in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joginder, who bowled the match-winning final over in the 2007 World T20 final against Pakistan, is a DSP in Haryana Police and is currently involved in dealing with the global health crisis which has killed more than 30,000.
“In his post-cricket career as a policeman, India’s Joginder Sharma is among those doing their bit amid a global health crisis,” the ICC tweeted on Saturday along with Joginder’s photos as a cricketer and cop.
The 36-year-old played four ODIs and as many T20s between 2004 and 2007. He joined the police service after retirement from the game.
Speaking to PTI, Sharma listed the challenges that come with "doing duty" during an unprecedented crisis.
“I have been a DSP since 2007. This is one of a kind challenge for me as a police officer because of the general fear and I can tell you that I have seen quite a few challenges in my years of service.”Joginder Sharma
Sharma is currently posted in Hisar as the nation observes a 21-day lockdown till April 14 to combat the pandemic, which has killed more than 24,000 globally.
“Our duty time starts around 6am and we do patrolling, making people aware, send those who are out for fun to their homes, help those in need of essentials or medical aid and take action against those who try to defy without any good reason.” he added.
“My family is in Rohtak, they are always worried for me. My wife and children call me all the time and talk about taking precautions. I salute my wife for managing the house at this time while I am here doing my duty.”Joginder Sharma
Sharma said he has been in Hisar for a few years now and his status of being a World Cup-winner comes in handy while counselling people.
“They respect me for my achievement and sometimes it helps my work when they see my nameplate.”Joginder Sharma
“When I tell people to not crowd markets for cheap deals, they adhere. I tell them how costly it would be if they catch this infection, that they should not risk a deadly disease for saving a few bucks.”
The pandemic has so far claimed over 30000 lives across the world while infecting more than 6.5 lakh people.
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