Last Update on: July 29th, 2023 at 03:59 pm
The start of the third day’s play of the ongoing fifth and final Ashes Test between England and Australia took many by surprise. The reason was that all the England players were sporting the wrong names on the back of their jerseys as they made their way out on the field before the start of play.
Well, it was because of a noble gesture as Ben Stokes and his teammates raised awareness about dementia, an illness that causes loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities. The Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have teamed up with Alzheimer’s Society to stump dementia out of the game. Keeping up with the campaign, the English team has dedicated the third day of the ongoing Test to raise money as well as awareness about the disease.
“Bringing people from all walks of life together under one roof, the Ashes delivers unforgettable jaw-dropping moments and treasured memories that stay with fans for a lifetime.
Today is the day! It's the @lv=Men's Ashes Test Match: Day 3 Supporting Alzheimer’s Society. 🏏
Huge thanks to the Kia Oval (@surreycricket) and @englandcricket – and sending lots of luck to our boys! 🤞
Great #CricketShouldBeUnforgettable https://t.co/oFsZXP1wXb pic.twitter.com/vbFrIO8HXj
— Alzheimer's Society (@alzheimerssoc) July 29, 2023
But sadly, forgetting their most precious memories of the Ashes is a heartbreaking and devastating reality for so many. We’re proud to be joining forces with the ECB for one of the world’s most iconic and historic sporting events,” said Kate Lee, Alzheimer’s Society CEO.
“This Test match will enable us to provide help and hope to everyone living with dementia, by funding faster diagnosis, life-changing support and vital research, making a massive difference to fans and players whose lives have been devastated by dementia,” she added.
A moving and powerful rendition of Jerusalem 👏@alzheimerssoc | #CricketShouldBeUnforgettable pic.twitter.com/cMC37JWC96
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 29, 2023
“The Ashes is one of the great sporting contests, and over the years it has produced so many amazing memories for me and millions more. As a team we want to entertain, and to make many more memories for cricket fans up and down the country,” said England captain Ben Stokes.
“But we know that dementia affects far too many people and has a terrible effect on them and their loved ones. By teaming up with the Alzheimer’s Society, I’m pleased we can raise awareness and vital money to help end the devastation caused by dementia,” he added.
England and Australia fight it out:
The ongoing Ashes series is set for a fitting end. After four thrilling Tests, the ongoing fifth match between England and Australia is also headed for a thrilling finish. After being all out for 283 in the first innings, England have bowled out the visitors for 295. The hosts need to win the Test at any cost to avoid a series defeat to Australia at home for the first time since 2001.