Ricky Ponting today launched the 2016 Biggest Game of Cricket (BGOC) – the Ponting Foundation’s major annual fundraising initiative.
The launch, held at the Cluden Cricket Club, featured a three over game with Freddie Flintoff, James Pattinson and Shane Warne each bowling an over to Ricky.
The fielding team was made up of star cricketers, Aaron Finch, Peter Siddle, and Matthew Wade, along with junior players from the South East Cricket Association – strong supporters of BGOC – who attended along with volunteers BGOC organisers from each club.
Over 200 children from the local primary school added to the festivities and enjoyed every minute, watching superstars of cricket try to out-do each other on the field!
BGOC 2016 will see thousands of people around Australia having fun this summer with family and friends playing games of cricket in the backyard, at the beach, in the park, at the local cricket club, at school, and just about anywhere you can set up the stumps. Each game provides a focus for individual fundraising efforts in aid of the Ponting Foundation.
Since its inception in 2008 the Ponting Foundation has worked with its partners to help young Australians and their families suffering from cancer. Ricky commented “I have visited hospitals across Australia and witnessed the impact that cancer has on kids and their families. The Ponting Foundation is committed to continuing its significant funding of key beneficiaries to help young Australians and their families beat cancer”.
Funds raised from the 2016 BGOC will be distributed to three key partners:
- Funds raised in Victoria will be donated to the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne
- Funds raised in Tasmania will support multiple health organisations throughout that state; and
- Funds raised in every other state will be used to continue Redkite’s Exceptional Needs Assistance program
Everyone can get involved in BGOC by organising or participating in a game; by helping to increase awareness by promoting BGOC, or simply by making a donation to help the Ponting Foundation continue the great work that it does throughout the community. There are also some terrific fundraising incentives available thanks to the generous support of Harvey Norman.
Ricky observed, “It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, a cricket tragic or have never played, whether you were born in Australia or from another country, we can all make a difference. And that’s why I want you to join us this summer – register your game at biggestgameofcricket.com.au, fundraise and play your very own Biggest Game of Cricket!”
“We are going into bat for kids with cancer; don’t worry if you’re not a cricketer; get your friends and family together this summer, play a game of cricket and raise much needed funds for a terrific cause. Help us to continue to support young Australians facing the biggest battle of their lives”, added Ricky.
