IANS

Melbourne, Dec 20 (mb): Adam Gilchrist will wear pink wicket-keeping gloves in the first Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to raise awareness for breast cancer research, it was reported by the media here Wednesday.

Following in the footsteps of Australian team-mates Matthew Hayden and Andrew Symonds, who used pink batting grips in last year's Boxing Day Test against England, Gilchrist will don pink gloves in support of the McGrath Foundation.

The foundation, established by Glenn McGrath and his wife Jane, could also benefit handsomely during the match depending on Gilchrist's success behind the stumps as his private sponsors have promised $18,000 to the charity for every dismissal he effects in the match.

Gilchrist has 391 dismissals from his 92 Tests and is closing in on Ian Healy's Australian record of 395, which means the McGrath Foundation will reap $90,000 if he overtakes his predecessor.

Gilchrist needed permission from Cricket Australia and the International Cricket Council to wear pink gloves, but was happy to help his friends' charity.

"Glenn has not only been a great team-mate, but he and Jane have been close friends of mine and my wife, Mel, for many years now," he said.

"Jane's recovery from her illness has been truly inspirational and to be able to help in some small way for their foundation is a great privilege," he added.

Symonds and Hayden benefited from using pink grips during last year's Melbourne Test, as both passed 150 in a match-winning partnership of 279.

South Africa's Mark Boucher holds the world wicketkeeping record in Tests, and has 403 dismissals.