Darren Gough: 'As the scale of the disaster grew it's just been heartbreaking' © Getty Images Enlarge

International stars from various countries have sent messages of commiseration to the people affected by the tsunami disaster that ravaged several parts of South Asia recently. Darren Gough, Chris Cairns, Daniel Vettori, Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo are some of the players who have have converged in Melbourne to participate in the charity game between an ICC XI and an Asian XI on January 10, and they all expressed their grief at the tragic event.

Gough revealed the shock he had felt when he initially heard the news. "I suppose my first reaction was to think of all the really nice people I've met in Sri Lanka when I've played there, and memories of playing at Galle and other grounds. As the scale of the disaster grew and grew it's just been heartbreaking."

Cairns was happy that the cricket community managed to organise an event of such scale in such a short time. "The massive logistical operation required to put on an event like this means all those involved are fully committed to making this a huge success."

Gough spoke of the generosity of the people from all over the world to reach out to the victims. "I think cricket has led from the front too. The generosity of people from Britain has been immense - my kids have given their pocket money and millions of people have made massive contributions. Then there are people like Murali who has been handing out food parcels virtually since it happened."

Vettori hoped that the rehabilitation efforts would be sustained over a period of time and added, "It is going to take a long time for people, cities, and countries to recover. It is going to take years of resource before communities are able to function. This appeal is not about one day or one week, it's about being there for as long as it takes."