CRICKET across Worcestershire turned red at the weekend in support of a former England captain’s bid to raise funds and awareness of the rare form of lung cancer which claimed the life of his late wife.
Almost a month and a half on from the pinnacle of a white-ball England revolution he did so much to inspire, the heroic triple Ashes-winning captain doffed his three-lions cap to the county for its support of the foundation honouring his late wife.
As an echo of the hugely successful Jane McGrath Day which takes place on the third day of the Sydney Test each year, the second day of the second Specsavers Ashes Test on Thursday (August 15) was chosen to raise awareness of the Ruth Strauss Foundation, founded by the former England captain.
In a show of support Worcestershire cricket went red on Saturday (August 17) as teams from across the county, including Worcestershire CCC, offered their backing as part of the county’s One Club project.
Each club was asked to add £2 to players’ match fees and provide a photo of them and their opponents before the start which can be shared on their social media channels to spread the word.
More than 40 clubs registered with more than 700 cricketers across the county showing their support.
Specially commissioned, limited-edition red BEPARTOFIT wristbands are being provided for wear during matches and a stencil and tin of red spray paint were also supplied, so the ‘Worcestershire Cricket Goes Red’ message could be displayed on outfields.
Ruth Strauss was diagnosed in December 2017 with a rare form of lung cancer – one that affects non-smokers – and died in Australia 12 months later at the age of 46, leaving two sons.
Strauss described himself in a personal video message as ‘absolutely blown away’ by the support from the cricket world after his family’s devastating loss.
“It’s amazing clubs in Worcestershire want to play their part,” he said. “A huge thanks from me. Together, hopefully, we can raise awareness and a huge amount of money.”
Visit www.wccc.co.uk/turnsred for more.
