Local hero Glenn McGrath was on home turf to launch the 2019 Pink Stumps Day,
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McGrath Foundation co-founder and president, Glenn McGrath joined locals, turning the pitch pink at Dundas Oval for a game of cricket and calling on the community to register for a game of their own this summer.
"It's great to be back in Narromine, it's been a little long," McGrath said.
"So we're here ... we're launching this year's Pink Stumps Day.”
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“It’s now in its tenth year and the support is growing every year, and this is what it’s about getting out, having fun having a go and raising money for a great cause so this is our launch for pink stumps.”
The summer campaign has been going since the first Sydney Pink test, and has played a vital fundraising role as the Foundation works towards its vision of a free McGrath Breast Care Nurse for every family in Australia experiencing breast cancer, no matter where they live or their financial situation.
"I remember having a conversation with a couple of people around that test match thinking it would be great to take this test match to the rest of Australia and communities," McGrath said.
“Ever since I was a kid growing up here I’ve loved how cricket brings people together and it’s fantastic to be back on home soil to mark the launch of this national fundraising campaign.
“The kids are out there having a bit of fun and it’s about having a go … it’s a perfect day for it.”
It's been 29 years since the fast bowler left Narromine and the Backwater Cricket Club’s Mark Munro said it was great to have the pigeon himself back in town.
“There's always a McGrath somewhere so kids, keep playing cricket,” Munro said.
“The social side of it is absolutely outstanding, you're fit, you're healthy and you could end up playing for Australia.
“To have someone like Glenn come back to town, support Narromine, support cricket is absolutely fantastic and it's only going to encourage more kids, male and female, to take up the game and hopefully end up in the green and gold.”
McGrath said it was great to be back where it all started, hoping future generations will aspire to represent Australia.
"I am a Narromine boy and very proud of it, so to think the local community still get behind it and supports myself and the McGrath foundation, it's pretty special," he said.
"Hopefully there's some kids out there that have aspirations to go and represent Australia in whatever they choose to do.
"Melinda Gainsford Taylor and David Gillespie have gone on to represent Australia, so hopefully there’s plenty more to come," he said.
While the official Pink Stumps Day isn’t until February 16, families, friends, cricket clubs, businesses and schools can get involved by pinking up their local cricket game or backyard this summer by hosting their own event.
To register visit www.pinkstumpsday.com.au.