Over £15,000 was raised for the Professional Cricketers’ Trust across the weekend of Vitality Blast Finals Day, despite the weather delaying proceedings until mid-afternoon on Sunday.
Funds were raised via a range of methods, including a text-to-donate platform, JustGiving page, silent auction and raffle.
The umpires on the day sported the Trust’s logo on their caps, whilst details of how to donate were displayed on TV coverage, the big screens at Edgbaston as well as on LEDs around the boundary edge.
The charity also received overwhelming support on social media, including from the likes of England Test skipper Joe Root, Stuart Broad and Sir Andrew Strauss.
The Trust offers support to PCA members and their immediate families, ranging from emotional support through to the provision of specialist medical equipment and assistance required as a result of uncertainty triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“With 283 cases supported in the area of mental health alone since 2017, the work of the Professional Cricketers’ Trust has never been more important,” said Professional Cricketer’s Trust Director Ian Thomas.
“I would like to thank Vitality, the ECB and Sky Sports for their efforts in helping to raise both funds for, and awareness of, the charity throughout this year’s Vitality Blast Finals Day.
“With the money raised, we are able to continue supporting professional cricketers in England and Wales and their immediate families for years to come, helping to safeguard our game for future generations.”
To donate to the players’ charity, visit their JustGiving page - or text TRUSTCRICKET10 to 70085 to donate £10.