Faf du Plessis shares candid account of Nepal floods: ‘Devastating to see what happened’

Former South African captain Faf du Plessis on Saturday joined a growing list of cricketers expressing solidarity with the people of Nepal after devastating floods caused widespread destruction and left hundreds dead and thousands missing.Du Plessis, who visited Nepal last year, went to X to recall his experience in the country and appreciate the kindness of its people as he offered his thoughts and prayers to those affected by the disaster.“I was lucky enough to visit Nepal last year and experience firsthand the kindness of its people and the incredible beauty of the country. It is devastating to see what has happened. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected and to the families and communities facing such a heartbreaking loss,” du Plessis wrote.His message came after Indian cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Irfan Pathan also expressed their support for those affected by the devastating floods.

Sachin, Irfan also offer prayers

Tendulkar shared an emotional message on X on Thursday, especially aimed at families who are still waiting for news of their loved ones amid ongoing rescue operations.“Perhaps there is no greater uncertainty than not knowing if someone you love is safe. My heart goes out to all the families affected by the devastating floods in Nepal, especially those still waiting for news. I am praying for my loved ones and for the rescue teams working tirelessly to reach them,” Tendulkar wrote.Pathan had earlier shared a shorter but equally heartfelt message after seeing visuals emanating from the disaster-hit areas.“My prayers are with the people of Nepal at this difficult time. The sight of the image is heartbreaking. May Nepal find strength soon and overcome this difficult phase,” Pathan wrote.The messages from the prominent cricketers came as Nepal continues to deal with the devastating effects of floods that triggered glacial avalanches after a glacier collapsed near the Nepal-Tibet border. A torrent of water, mud and debris swept through parts of central Nepal, destroying homes, vehicles, roads and bridges and damaging hydroelectric projects.

Rescue efforts continue as Nepal grapples with the devastation

The scale of the disaster required a large-scale search, rescue and relief operation with thousands of workers deployed in the affected areas. Nepalese authorities are working to reach people stranded or trapped in hard-to-reach places, while damaged roads and continued rain have complicated rescue and relief efforts.India has also increased its aid to neighboring Nepal. According to information provided by the Nepalese authorities, India has sent 57.6 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to the flood-affected areas, while an 11-member Indian team of medical personnel and tunnel rescue experts has arrived in Nepal following a request from Kathmandu.Nepali Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle praised India’s response to the crisis, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi “exceptionally generous”. He said New Delhi had indicated it would provide “very generous reconstruction assistance” as Nepal moves from immediate relief efforts to recovery and rebuilding.Wagle said the response will be phased, starting with rescuing those who can still be rescued, including people stranded or trapped in hydroelectric power plants. The Nepalese army was also heavily involved in the rescue operation, with thousands of security personnel mobilized.