Pulling strings: Tamil Nadu footballer helping hometown during Coronavirus crisis despite being stuck in Kolkata

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Image Courtesy: Depositphotos/PTI

Due to the nationwide lock down and travel ban imposed in India amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, many sportspersons are stranded away from their homes. Even in such worrying times, Tamil Nadu footballer Michael Soosairaj, who is now stuck in Kolkata, has provided a helping hand towards his hometown amidst the novel Coronavirus outbreak.

Image Courtesy: Depositphotos/PTI

Soosairaj, who hails from the village of Eraviputhenthurai in Kanniyakumari, TN, plays for the Indian National Team and ATK in the Indian Super League. Following his first ISL win with the Kolkata-based franchise on 14th March, the midfielder returned to the city with the team for celebration, and decided to remain in the city, which prohibited Soosairaj to return to his home as the nationwide lock down started on 24th March.

Even though the player is away from his home, Soosairaj has been concerend about the safety of his family and the people of Eraviputhenthurai in the woeful times, and offered help to the Father of the church of the village.

“I spoke to Father Jerome of our St Catherine Church back home and asked him how I can be of help,” Soosairaj spoke to Times of India, “since I am not physically present, I offered money for their needs.”

The village of Eraviputhenthurai has not yet seen any Coronavirus cases till now, but the lock down is taking a toll on the fishermen community. However, the 25 year old has been concerned about spreading awareness towards them regarding self isolation.

Soosairaj continued: “With the fishermen not going to the sea, they would play football. But I try to speak to as many people as possible over phone and make them realise the importance of staying at home.”

The former Chennai City and Jamshedpur FC player’s fight was cancelled on 23rd March, and is now staying indoors in Kolkata since the lock down initiated. However Soosairaj has been been keeping himself fit with regular exercises, and has also developed some cooking skills.

“I have been doing my core and strength training exercises to remain fit,” Soosairaj went on, “I have been cooking as well and I can now prepare chicken and fish curry, chapati and a few other items.”

“Cooking is actually a stress buster,” the player concluded.

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