The Indian Women’s cricket team walked out in a brand-new look for the 3rd ODI against Australia in Delhi, as they swapped their regular blue jerseys for a striking all-pink kit. The initiative is aimed to spread awareness about breast cancer.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the special campaign through a video posted on its social media platforms, where skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, opener Pratika Rawal, and all-rounder Sneh Rana appeared in pink jerseys.
The gesture sends a far more pivotal message that transcends the boundaries of the cricketing world, and with the three-match series evenly poised at a scoreline of 1-1, the final clash gains even greater significance.
Opener Pratika Rawal echoed her sentiments before the big clash, highlighting that prevention is always better than cure. “This pink jersey is a reminder of a bigger fight, and the strength for this fight against breast cancer comes from early detection,” said Rawal.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur added, “Everyday we train for uncertainties, and this pink jersey is a reminder for you to be prepared. Let’s make breast self-examination a monthly routine and take a stand against breast cancer.”
All-rounder Sneh Rana also shared her thoughts. “This pink jersey is more than just a symbol. It is a call to build a life-saving habit. Together, let’s fight against breast cancer and give ourselves a hug of life,” she added.
Other cricket-playing teams have also introduced similar traditions earlier. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Gujarat Titans have worn lavender jerseys to create awareness around cancer prevention.
Internationally, South Africa’s men’s team hosts ‘Pink Day’ in Johannesburg, while Australia’s Sydney Test has become known as the ‘Pink Test’ in support of the McGrath Foundation. In England, the Ruth Strauss Foundation’s #RedForRuth Day has become a powerful initiative to help families facing terminal illness.
For the hosts, the pink jersey stands as a symbol of solidarity for the cause and also gives them a final push as a win in the deciding match will help them cruise to a historic first-ever bilateral series victory over Australia in Women’s ODI history.
The game is not just about the result of the series but also acts as India’s dress rehearsal before the Women’s World Cup that begins on 30 September in Guwahati. Though in the first ODI, India lost by 8 wickets, they bounced back stronger in the second match, where they handed Australia their heaviest ODI defeat of 102 runs.
Now, in the third ODI, a win against defending and seven-time champions would give the Women in Blue confidence and momentum heading into the multi-nation tournament that will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
For India, the 3rd ODI is about more than cricket. The pink kit is both a symbol of a wider fight and a chance to create history on the field, with the series and the World Cup build-up on the line.
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