Cricket ODI to paint Joburg pink

IF MOTHER Nature plays along then the breast cancer awareness campaign that is at the heart of the “Pink ODI” at the Wanderers tomorrow will see celebrations explode from the stands to the streets around the stadium.

The Pink ODI has rapidly become one of the must-see events in Joburg and tomorrow’s match between the Proteas and the current world champions England will be another grand occasion. Tickets for the match were sold out two weeks ago.

Hopefully the weather plays along. Rain has been forecast for the morning, but it should clear sufficiently for a significant portion of 100 overs to be bowled in what is the third and final match of the One-day International series between the two teams.

The England team have also entered into the occasion, with New Balance (which also sponsors the Proteas) kitting them out in outfits with pink shoulders and a pink sleeve trim.

Before the game, there will be a fashion parade on Corlett Drive led by twelve Soprano Harley Davidson members, shuttling eleven breast cancer ambassadors, while the SAPS horses will be dressed in pink as well.

Among the celebrities attending will be Saray Khumalo (first black woman to summit Mount Everest); Miss SA Sashalee

Olivier and Major Mandisa Mfeka (the first black female SA Air Force Pilot).

Over the last five years, through the “Pink ODI,” over R5 million has been raised for breast cancer awareness. All proceeds raised will go towards the Breast Care Unit at the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital in Joburg.

“When I heard where the funds would be going, I visited the Breast Care Unit with my wife a few weeks back, and I was both chilled to the bone and warmed to my heart. There are great people out there, doing incredible work,” said Jono Leaf-wright, chief executive Central Gauteng Lions.

“Having said that, the day has very little to do with on the field action, and more to do with our fundraising efforts and awareness creation from today until sunset on February 9 next year.”

Corlett Drive will be closed from Rudd to Irene roads from 8am to 7pm.