On the second day of the 2023 Ashes Test at Edgbaston Cricket Stadium, the venue will turn Blue for Bob to honor the late Bob Willis. Willis, who passed away from prostate cancer in 2019, was a legendary cricketer for England, who took 325 wickets in 90 Test matches. The initiative aims to raise money for the Bob Willis Fund, co-founded by his wife and brother, to support research and raise awareness about prostate cancer.
Edgbaston previously went blue for Bob during the 2021 ODI between England and Pakistan and on day two of England’s rescheduled fifth Test against India in 2022. Spectators attending day two’s game are being encouraged to wear blue to show support for the cause.
Edgbaston holds a special place in Willis’ career, as the stadium was his home ground during his time with Warwickshire from 1972 to 1984, including winning the County Championship in his first season. After retiring from the game, Willis became a commentator for Sky Sports.
In the ongoing first Ashes Test, England captain Joe Root scored a magnificent 118, his first Test century against Australia since 2015, to help England reach 393/8 before a surprise declaration. Other notable contributions came from Zak Crawley, who scored 61, and Jonny Bairstow, who scored 78. By the end of the day, Australia finished on 14/0, still trailing England by 379 runs.
Fans attending the second day of the Ashes 2023 Test are invited to join the Blue for Bob initiative and contribute to the Bob Willis Fund. The event represents a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the life and accomplishments of a great cricketer, while supporting a vital cause in the fight against prostate cancer.
