India captain Virat Kohli has urged his countrymen to take all the necessary precautions in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed the lives of over 4,000 people across the globe.

In India, there has been two deaths along with 80-plus positive COVID-19 cases which has prompted suspension of all sporting activities, including an ODI series against South Africa and the cash-rich Indian Premier League.

“Let’s stay strong and fight the #COVID19 outbreak by taking all precautionary measures. Stay safe, be vigilant and most importantly remember, prevention is better than cure. Please take care everyone,” Kohli tweeted.

On Friday, Kohli was seen coming out of the Lucknow airport wearing a black face mask.

The Indian team were supposed to have a training session on Saturday but in the evening, the BCCI and Cricket South Africa mutually agreed to call off the series after the visiting team players made it clear that they wanted to return home at the earliest.

Kolkata Knight Riders principal owner and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan said he is hopeful of the COVID-19 pandemic subsiding and a deferred IPL going ahead with all the necessary health precautions in place.

A day after the start of the IPL was suspended from March 29 to April 15 by the BCCI, the franchise owners had a meeting before the event’s Governing Council meet in Mumbai.

“Wonderful to meet all the Franchise owners ‘off the field’ so to say. The meeting by Bcci and ipl was to reiterate what all of us feel...safety first of the spectators, players management & cities we play in. All directives of the health agencies & govt to be followed..,,” Shah Rukh tweeted.

“Hope the spread of the virus subsides & the show can go on. BCCI & team owners in consultation with the govt will keep a close watch & decide the way fwd in the health interest of ever1. Lovely 2 meet every1 & then sanitise ourselves repeatedly,” he added.

Former India batsman VVS Laxman also took to Twitter, asking people to come together to deal with this deadly disease.

“One who stays away can save the rest. Requesting everyone to take the necessary precautions & be responsible. If you have symptoms, please get yourself tested. If you have tested positive please be in isolation and help prevent others. Together we can overcome this soon #COVID19,” Laxman tweeted.