The Hindu : Sport : An emotional moment for the Englishmen

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Sunday, Oct 30, 2005

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An emotional moment for the Englishmen

Lahore: Cricketing rivalry took a backseat in an emotional moment for the English quartet of Michael Vaughan, Marcus Trescothick, Ashley Giles and Matthew Hoggard as they met children injured in the October 8 earthquake at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).

Visibly moved, Vaughan told scribes after his visit that, being a father himself, it was very painful to see the children who underwent the trauma and sustained injuries. "It was very distressing to see the injuries to the kids. However, we've to remember that they are the lucky ones who've received aid and medical facilities," he added.

The visiting captain also urged all to come forward and help the victims.

"It's important with winter approaching the requirement of those needing blankets and tents in the quake zone is met quickly," he said.

Though the media was not allowed inside, a World Health Organisation (WHO) official, accompanying the players said the cricketers had tears in their eyes when they met the children.

Senior Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official Zakir Khan also accompanied the cricketers during their visit.

Vaughan also praised efforts by some Englishmen to help the victims.

"We are been proud of the fact that so many Britishers are helping the victims of the quake," he stated.

Meanwhile, the local media had some altercation with the security officials from London who refused to allow them near the players.

Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz also visited PIMS before the cricketers arrived. — UNI

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