ECB announce Red for Ruth Day plans for third West Indies Test

During the Lord’s Ashes Test last year, more than 28,500 spectators supported the organisation, helping to raise over £550,000

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Despite England’s Test series against West Indies being played behind closed doors, the game will still go Red for Ruth on July 25 in support of the Ruth Strauss Foundation.

The charity, set up by former England captain Sir Andrew Strauss, was founded in memory of his late wife to support families facing the death of a parent to cancer.

During the Lord’s Ashes Test last year, more than 28,500 spectators supported the organisation, helping to raise over £550,000. Strauss and his two sons, Sam and Luca, presented players from both teams with commemorative red caps before the start of play.

This year’s plans will take place on the second day of the third Test of the series against West Indies, to be played at Emirates Old Trafford, with the match being called the Ruth Strauss Foundation Test. 

Strauss said: “Last year I was humbled and honoured by the support of the wider cricket family. We sincerely hope that the incredible display of generosity and community spirit will continue as we look to turn cricket Red for Ruth for a second year to support the Ruth Strauss Foundation.

“The day will look very different to last year, but we are very grateful to the ECB and Lancashire Cricket Club for their assistance in making this happen during what has been a difficult period for everyone.”

Viewers watching the game from home will be encouraged to wear red to show support, while #RedforRuth merchandise is now available via the foundation’s website.

Funds raised will go towards the Ruth Strauss Foundation’s mission of providing pre-bereavement support for families facing the death of a parent from cancer, and drive much-needed research into non-smoking lung cancers.

The players will wear special Ruth Strauss Foundation branded Test shirts with red caps being presented before play. Branding around Emirates Old Trafford will also go red including the stumps and boundary boards.

During the day, Sky Sports, BBC Test Match Special and the big screens in-ground will show pictures of the fans and clubs who show their best #RedforRuth efforts. There will also be an online auction, with items including a limited number of Ben Stokes signed pictures of his famous Ashes innings from last summer.

ECB chief executive Tom Harrison added: “It’s our privilege to name the Third Test in honour of the Ruth Strauss Foundation and to support Red For Ruth Day for a second year running. It’s a cause many of us at the ECB feel very passionately about. I hope that once again we can show how cricket can come together to raise funds to help families going through the toughest of times.”

England captain Joe Root explained: “Andrew is a true legend of our sport and it is almost impossible to imagine what he and his family went through. Cricket plays a massive part in so many lives and together we can help other families facing these same devastating circumstances. I ask all of our fans across England and Wales to turn red on the day and support this incredible charity.”

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