Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara on Wednesday dismissed rumours circulating on social media that suggested he had tested positive for Covid-19. The legendary batsman took to Instagram, and posted the same on Twitter, to clarify facts and urge people not to spread false information.
On Instagram, he put up a post that read, “I have been tested for COVID-19 and results confirm that I am negative for the virus”.
In the caption, Lara wrote that he has come across rumours that said he had tested positive for the coronavirus and it is important that he clarified facts.
He added that it would be detrimental to spread wrongful information that will cause panic in a community already feeling distressed.
“Hi everyone, I have read all the circulating rumours regarding me testing positive for the coronavirus and it is important I clarify the facts. Not only is this information false, it is also detrimental to spread such panic in a community already feeling the distress of the covid situation.
“While you haven’t personally affected me, what causes concern is that spread of wrongful information is careless and causes unnecessary worry amongst a lot of people that would have been in my circle.
“This virus isn’t something we should be using in a negative manner to create sensationalism.
“I hope and pray that all of us remain safe because as is noticeable covid 19 is going nowhere in the near future,” Lara wrote.
Lara’s fans on social media, relieved at the news, replied to the post with good wishes, asking him to take care of himself and stay safe.
The former West Indies captain has played 131 Tests and 299 ODIs for the national team. He retired from international cricket in 2007, finishing his career with 22,358 runs and 53 centuries. He also holds the record for the highest individual Test score of 400 runs.
