Play a brand of cricket that gives people hope in these trying times. That’s the message head coach Brendon McCullum has for his Knights, who are a much-relieved lot now following their victory over Punjab Kings after four straight losses.

Addressing his players about the growing concerns regarding the Covid-19 pandemic, McCullum urged Eoin Morgan and Co. to play the kind of cricket that brings at least a little bit of smile back on people’s faces.

“I know that people out there are struggling with what is going on at the moment in terms of the pandemic and the situation — not just here in India but also abroad. Heightened here in India… I understand it’s a difficult time.

“We’re going to do our best to try and play a brand of cricket and a style of cricket that gives those people back home something to look forward to, even if it is just for a three-to-four-hour period.

“We are in a privileged position and we can give a little bit of hope even in these difficult times,” McCullum said in a video posted in kkr.in.

Taking care of oneself and one’s family is the “highest priority” in the current situation, McCullum stressed.

“We see the empty seats, we see the empty stands and we hear the echoes of a not-so-distant past.

“When we enter a new city, we’re reminded of those days when you would swarm the streets with smiles on your faces. Gone are those days and gone is the excitement off the field.

“But in this situation, this is the need of the hour. In this scenario, to take care of yourself and your families is highest priority. This is far bigger than cricket,” the head coach said.

Pacer Pat Cummins too put forward his message. “To everyone out there in India, we are all thinking of you. We know it’s a really tough time. Stay safe and look after each other,” Cummins said.