Cricket Ireland and the Irish Heart Foundation have launched a new partnership for Heart Month, anchoring the campaign around the Ireland women’s cricket team during their current One Day International series in England. The September initiative was chosen by the squad and support staff to honor the late Peter Prendergast, father of Ireland all-rounder and vice-captain Orla Prendergast, who died from cardiac disease.
Orla Prendergast Leads Tribute During England Series
Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in Ireland, according to the Irish Heart Foundation. The partnership gives supporters a direct way to raise funds and awareness during the September match schedule. In a personal tribute to her father, Orla Prendergast switched her Ireland playing shirt number from 84 to 10, representing his birthday. The Irish Heart Foundation was instrumental in supporting her family following his death.
England currently leads the three-match ODI series 1-0 following a victory in the opener at Leicester on Tuesday, with the second match scheduled at Derby before the weekend finale at New Road, Worcester. A MatchWornShirt auction will run during Sunday’s third ODI in Worcester, with all proceeds directed to the Irish Heart Foundation.
Campaign Details and Institutional Support
Heart Month runs throughout September, focusing on small, sustainable lifestyle modifications that lower the risk of early heart disease and stroke. Cricket Ireland chief executive Sarah Keane added that the collaboration utilizes cricket’s expanding platform to advocate for heart health awareness across communities.
Supporters and local cricket clubs can participate in Heart Month challenges and make direct donations through Cricket Ireland’s dedicated fundraising page at events.irishheart.ie.
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