By IANS,
Sydney : Australian cricketers will pay tribute to Jane McGrath, wife of their former team mate Glenn, by wearing pink ribbons during the first one-day international against the West Indies in St Vincent Tuesday.
Jane, 42, passed away Sunday after a prolonged battle with cancer. The players will also use pink bat grips in acknowledgement of Jane and the McGrath Foundation, which she founded with her husband to raise money for the placement of breast cancer nurses in hospitals across the country.
Australian captain Ricky Ponting said he was greatly saddened to learn of Jane’s passing.
“Jane was a wonderful person who fought and maintained grace and dignity during her long-term illness,” Ponting was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.
“She was an exceptionally friendly and lovely person who displayed great courage and stoicism during her illness. She was a tremendous mother to James and Holly and shared a very special and deep relationship with Glenn in the time they had together.
“All of us are thinking about Glenn and their children at this very sad time. We all wish to convey that our best wishes go with him and to know our heartfelt sympathies are with the family at this time.
“Jane will be very fondly remembered by all of us.”
Steve Bernard, the Australian team manager, said the wearing of the pink ribbons was something the players “were all very keen to do”.
“They all wish to show their respects for Jane and ensure Glenn is aware they are thinking of him during this difficult time,” Bernard added.
Andrew Symonds and Matthew Hayden have previously used the pink bat grip in international matches to raise awareness and funds for the McGrath Foundation.