Shahid Afridi took to social media and shared a video message with his fans, addressing the rumours surrounding his health condition after the former Pakistan captain said he tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Shahid Afridi said the first 2-3 days after testing positive for Covid-19 ‘were really tough’ but his condition has been improving steadily. Afridi urged his fans not to panic about the situation and follow all the precautionary measures to keep the novel coronavirus away.

Shahid Afridi said on Saturday, June 13 that he had tested positive for Covid-19 after not feeling well since Thursday.

“I wanted to make this video as I have been hearing a lot about my health on social media since the past few days. First 2-3 days were really tough for me but my condition has been improving in the past few days,” Afridi said in a video message posted on Facebook.

“There is no need to panic about this. Till you yourself don’t fight a disease, you cannot beat it. These days were hard for me as well.”

‘Knew I would contract the virus’

Shahid Afridi, who has been isolating himself after contracting the virus, said he misses spending time and hugging his kids. The former all-rounder also said he knew he would contract the virus, given he was out, helping the needy in the time of crisis with his foundation, Shahid Afridi Foundation.

“The biggest concern for me over the last 8-9 days is that I am unable to take care of my children, love and hug them. I miss my children. But it is important to take precautions to keep yourself safe and others safe.

“I knew I would get the disease as I was travelling a lot for charity work. Thankfully, it didn’t happen in the beginning as if it had happened early, I would have been able to help people, send them essential supplies,” Afridi said.

Wishes for speedy recovery have been pouring in for Shahid Afridi ever since he announced he had contracted the virus. Former India cricketers Gautam Gambhir and Aakash Chopra were among the many in the cricket fraternity

Thanking people for keeping him in their prayers, Afridi said: “Thank you for all your well wishes. It gives me immense pleasure to know that I have so many people praying for me in Pakistan and outside Pakistan. Thank you for your support.”