MARNUS REVEALS HEARTACHE BEFORE CLASH
FOR the world’s No.1 Test batter, Marnus Labuschagne, the start of the Ashes Pink Test on Wednesday will be a particularly emotional time.
“My grandmother Engela died relatively young from breast cancer,” the 27-year-old said. “She fought that battle for 10 or 15 years.”
South African-born Labuschagne was still a teenager when she died but her passing had a profound impact on him.
“My grandmother had her family and my grandpa by her side as she took that journey, but that is not always the case,” he said.
The Pink Test raises funds for McGrath Breast Care Nurses who help and support people with breast cancer.
“The more Breast Care Nurses we can have supporting people the better,” Labuschagne said.
“That is why it is so great for us to turn the Sydney Cricket Ground pink.”
The McGrath Foundation on Monday called on Australians to support that cause by buying 240,000 Virtual Pink Seats to fund McGrath Breast Care nurses for 3400 individuals and families this year.
This is the 14th year of the annual Pink Test with day three renamed Jane McGrath Day in honour of the wife of legendary bowler and Pink Test Founder Glenn McGrath. She died from breast cancer.
McGrath, who hopes to recover from Covid in order to make the third day’s play, said: “Last year the Virtual Pink Seats allowed fans to be part of the Pink Test even though crowds were restricted.
“This year, no matter whether you’re at the ground, staying at home, ‘stuck in iso’ or watching from overseas, we want your help to create an Ashes Pink-wash by buying a Virtual Pink Seat and sharing it across your socials to show support for families experiencing breast cancer.”