Pakistan’s cricket team took to the field in pink jerseys instead of their traditional green kits during a tri-series match against England as part of an initiative to raise awareness about breast cancer.
The match was held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday (October 25). The initiative was organised by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
The campaign was aligned with “Pinktober”, the global breast cancer awareness campaign observed throughout October. Its aim was to raise public awareness about the disease and highlight the importance of early detection, regular screening and timely treatment.
Members of the England team, match officials and commentators also showed their support by wearing pink ribbons. The stumps used in the match were coloured pink, while the PCB arranged awareness graphics and promotional activities throughout the stadium. Digital campaigns were also planned before and after the match.
Ali Adnan Zaidi, director of the PCB’s commercial department, said cricket was a powerful medium for reaching millions of people. He said the board wanted to use the sport’s popularity to generate meaningful awareness and public engagement on breast cancer. PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed Syed also highlighted the responsibility that comes with the widespread popularity and influence of cricket in the country.
Using pink jerseys to promote breast cancer awareness is not new in international cricket. South Africa holds an annual “Pink Day” one-day international at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, with its players taking the field in pink kits.
In the 2024 Pink Day match against Pakistan, the visitors won by 36 runs. In the 2021 edition, South Africa secured a 17-run victory despite a brilliant 193-run innings by Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman.
Pakistan also organised a similar pink-themed awareness event during a T20 series against South Africa last year.
Another prominent example is Australia’s annual “Pink Test” at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The event supports the McGrath Foundation, a breast cancer support charity established by former Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath and his wife, Jane McGrath.
Source: Dawn
