Steady rainfall and a delayed start will not be enough to dampen spirits at Moore Park today, as the Sydney Cricket Ground turns pink to celebrate the legacy of Jane McGrath.
Since 2009, Cricket Australia, the SCG and the McGrath Foundation have worked together to make the Sydney ‘Pink Test’ one of the biggest charitable events on the sporting calendar. The most touching indication of the strength and unity of the cricketing community, the ground will turn pink today as supporters, commentators and even players (David Warner warmed up in hot pink compression tights), add a touch of pink to their outfits to show their support.
Jane McGrath Day, the iconic centrepiece of the partnership between the McGrath Foundation and the game, began with Jane and Glenn’s very public experience with breast cancer.
The SCG turns pink on Day 3. (Photo supplied, Rina Hore)
Some years after her initial diagnosis, Jane and the family had a breast care nurse when the cancer returned; a nurse whose impact was equally empowering and comforting. The experience inspired Glenn and the Foundation to ensure that families impacted by breast cancer, can be supported by a breast care nurse, no matter where they live – free of charge.
A noble ambition, the McGrath Foundation – with boundless support from the cricketing community – has raised in excess of $12 million in the last 13 years to fund the placement of nurses nationwide. Well on the way, there are 171 McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia; nurses whose invaluable work has touched more than 95,000 families since 2005.
While the support of the cricket family never ceases to amaze, the extent of goodwill has been particularly evident in the last two years. As COVID has ravaged communities, families and businesses, the support for the McGrath Foundation has steadily increased.
This year, the fundraising has been taken online, as supporters can purchase a virtual seat at the SCG. With a goal to sell 240,000 virtual seats, more than 170,000 have currently been sold, with funds raised just below $3.5 million. A stunning show of support, the numbers will keep growing and it is heartening to see cricket and cricketers acting as a catalyst for social cohesion, resilience and continued compassion.
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The Bradman Foundation, established in 1987, is a non-profit charitable trust, designed to promote cricket as a valuable cultural and sporting force within the community. Reflecting the beneficial role that cricket plays, too, the Foundation honours Sir Donald’s vision that “cricket continues to flourish and spread its wings.”
It is encouraging, therefore to observe the extent of support – particularly from visiting nations – every year at the Sydney Test. The annual pink cap presentations and keenness to use pink grips and shoelaces and donate playing kit, highlights how willing the cricket family is to rally behind a good cause.
You can support the McGrath Foundation HERE
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