Former Indian captain Sachin Tendulkar has come to the rescue of bat repairer Ashraf Chaudhary who once fixed his bats. Ashraf or "Ashraf Chacha" as he is well known in cricketing circles, is hospitalised since almost two weeks in the Savla Hospital due to diabetes and midzone pneumonia related complications.

His close friend Prashant Jethmalani told PTI on Tuesday (August 25), “Tendulkar came forward and has spoken to Ashraf Chacha. He has also helped him financially. A major chunk of the finances has been donated by the legendary batsman.”

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Ashraf has fixed bats of several Indian cricketers including Tendulkar and current Indian captain Virat Kohli, but is batting tough times due to the COVID-19 pandemic and his own bad health.

He is an-ever present figure at the iconic Wankhede Stadium whenever any cricket match is hosted at the venue. International batsmen like Kieron Pollard, Steve Smith, Faf du Plessis and Chris Gayle have got their bats repaired from Ashraf, and went on to score lots of runs with them.

Ashraf owns a shop by the name of M Ashraf Bro located in South Mumbai, and often repaired bats for free for cricketers for the love of the game. Unfortunately, today the same kind-hearted person is battling health and financial issues.

(With PTI inputs)