Ashes 2023: Lord's turns Red as England and Australia players wear unique jerseys to support special cause

Before the start of Day 2 of the second Ashes Test 2023, in a heartwarming display of solidarity, both the Australian and English players took to the field wearing red caps. This touching gesture was dedicated in memory of Ruth Strauss, the late wife of Andrew Strauss, a former England cricket captain. 

The day, aptly named "Red for Ruth," held a significant meaning for Andrew Strauss and the cricketing community. Ruth Strauss was a beloved figure, being the wife of the respected former England batter and captain, Sir Andrew Strauss. She played a vital role as a supportive spouse during the cricketer's illustrious career. However, tragedy struck in 2018 when Ruth passed away at the young age of 46 due to a rare form of non-smoking lung cancer.

The England Cricket Board (ECB) also took to social media to highlight this special cause, tweeting a message of support for the event.

A special day.
A brilliant cause.

Today, @HomeOfCricket turns #RedForRuth ❤️ pic.twitter.com/iaixKap8BJ

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 29, 2023

2019 ✅
2020 ✅
2021 ✅
2022 ✅
2023 ❤️@HomeOfCricket will unite in a sea of red for the fifth year of #RedForRuth

Wear red wherever you are tomorrow and help us support families so they don't have to face grief alone ❤️

➡️ https://t.co/aOjBRS6tBh pic.twitter.com/ZT8QZWRM5A

— Ruth Strauss Foundation (@RuthStraussFdn) June 28, 2023

What is Red for Ruth day?

In response to the heartbreaking loss, Andrew Strauss established the Ruth Strauss Foundation. The foundation aims to raise funds for families affected by non-smoking lung cancers and to support research into the illness. The inspiration for "Red for Ruth" came from Glenn McGrath, an Australian cricket legend who had set up a similar initiative called Jane McGrath Day in honor of his late wife, who had succumbed to breast cancer.

The sight of both teams, donning their red caps, and stepping onto the field in unison is a powerful image of unity, empathy, and support. It highlights the compassion that exists within the cricketing fraternity and its ability to rally around meaningful causes.

As the players donned their regular caps, the significance of the red caps remained, serving as a reminder of the power of unity and the enduring legacy of Ruth Strauss. It demonstrates that cricket is not just a sport but a platform for unity, support, and making a positive impact.