‘Pink Test’ turns 10 as England seek Ashes consolation

Glenn McGrath is eyeing a fundraising goal in excess of $1 million for this week’s 10th edition of the SCG Pink Test.

The McGrath Foundation was started in 2005, following his first wife, Jane’s diagnosis with breast and bone cancer. She went into remission, however, the cancer returned and she died in 2008, aged 42.

The foundation works to increase awareness of breast cancer, and to provide breast cancer education and support nurses around Australia to assist and those dealing with the disease.

Australia and England will conclude the Ashes series this week at the SCG, with a sea of pink in the stands and on the ground for day three, known as Jane McGrath Day.

England seek consolation victory

The recurrence of Chris Woakes’ side strain injury has left England with a weakened side going into the Pink Ashes Test as they seek a consolation victory.

Tom Curran will be beneficiary of Woakes’ injury. England have decided to play both their spinners, Moeen Ali and Mason Crane, on a turning surface, with Crane originally pencilled in to come in to the side instead of Curran.

In young leg-spinner Mason Crane, England will call on the one man in the England squad who has played Sheffield Shield cricket at the SCG. England skipper, Joe Root is a fan; “He’s a serious competitor with a really good mental game for Test cricket,” Root said.

Australia opt for pace over spin

A recovered Mitchell Starc will return to the Australia team after showing he was no longer hampered by the bruised heel that kept him out of Melbourne Ashes Test, as the hosts opted against the inclusion of off-spinner, Ashton Agar.

“I think the wicket’s got a fair bit of grass and looks to be a pretty good wicket, so I’d say we’ll probably opt for just the one spinner,” Aussie captain Smith said, before Australia finalised their team.

Best Bets

Bet365 have Australia $1.61 favourites, with England $4.50.

Our best value bet is the draw on the SCG’s batsmen-friendly wicket, at $4.50.

About the Author

Ken Edwards is Betting Top 10 Australia’s Sports News Columnist and sports is his true passion. As a former Queensland State level underage Cricketer and Rugby League Player and Sports Statistic Nerd, he brings a wealth of many years of discerning sports analysis and the practical expertise of being a twice winner of a national NRL tipping competition. Contact me: [email protected]