Bob Willis cricket: What does ‘Blue for Bob’ signify? Why England and Pakistan players wore blue caps before Edgbaston ODI?

Bob Willis: The third of the three-match ODI series is being played to raise awareness and funds regarding Prostate Cancer.

During the third ODI of the ongoing Pakistan’s tour of England in Birmingham, England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and chose to field for the second time in this series.

Having won the first two ODIs by comfortable margins, England have already gained a 2-0 unassailable lead in the three-match series. With ICC Men’s World Cup Super League points up for grabs, the hosts have refrained from giving opportunities to reserve players by naming an unchanged XI for this match.

Much like England, Pakistan have also taken field with an unchanged Playing XI with an eye on their maiden victory on the tour. However, they haven’t been able to put together a decent opening partnership as Fakhar Zaman has walked back to the dressing room after scoring 6 (14).

Bob Willis: What does ‘Blue for Bob’ signify?

Under #BlueForBob, it is worth mentioning that the match is being played to raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer, much on the lines of Pink Test in Sydney and #RedForRuth Test in Manchester.

It is worth mentioning that former England fast bowler Bob Willis (aged 70) had died of prostate cancer in December 2019. “We are heartbroken to lose our beloved Bob, who was an incredible husband, father, brother and grandfather. He made a huge impact on everybody he knew and we will miss him terribly,” Willis’ family had said in a statement back in the day.

It is due to the same reason that both the English and Pakistani players were seen donning blue caps before the match as they applauded for 45 second at the Edgbaston. It is also due to the same reason that commentators and a large majority of spectators at the venue are wearing blue today.

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