Surrey seamer Dan Worrall has extended his 2023 ambitions beyond the pitch by signing up for the London to Paris Charity Bike Ride in aid of the Professional Cricketers’ Trust.
Starting on 10 October, the event coincides with World Mental Health Day, with the Trust using the initiative to highlight the need to raise funds for combating wellbeing-related issues in and around the sport.
Several cricketers have previously shared how the Trust has supported them through struggles with their mental well-being, including England World Cup winner Liam Plunkett, Thunder’s Fi Morris and former Kent and Derbyshire seamer Simon Cusden.
That will be at the forefront of Worrall’s mind whilst he’s on the bike, with those taking part aiming to raise £50,000 that will provide support and services for more than 50 people who may need the charity’s help.
“Mental health and wellbeing is a crucial part of elite sport in general but, as cricketers, we’re dealing with failure the majority of the time. And when any athlete transitions from elite sport into the real world, it’s tough to deal with mentally,” the 31-year-old explained.
“After seeing it first-hand with friends and other teammates, it’s so important that they have some resources to be able to draw back on and ensure they hit the ground running when they finish playing cricket.”
Taking place over three days, participants will cover 400km between the two capital cities and experience the natural beauty of the English and French countryside, stop at the stunning Palace of Versailles and take in the famous Parisian culture.
Worrall is one of several current members who have currently put their names on the list, alongside England’s and South East Stars’ Alice Davidson-Richards and Freya Davies as well as James Bracey.
The riders will be raising money to provide life-changing and potentially life-saving assistance for cricketers both in and out of the game, as well as their immediate families. This includes expert advice, rehabilitation programmes and a dedicated 24-hour Confidential Helpline.
Worrall said: “It’s pretty daunting considering the only bike riding I’ve done is with a mountain bike on the way to school as a teenager. But I’m looking forward to it.
“It’s a cause that really hits home for a lot of cricketers that are at the stage I’m at in my career where I’ve got a young family. I’ve seen instances where people have had to draw on the Professional Cricketers’ Trust, which is important to look after cricketers – after their career finishes or whilst they’re playing – that fall on hard times, whether that be illness or family occurrences or anything like that.
“I don’t think I’m doing too much but it’s my way of giving a little back to the players that have supported me so well over the years.”
You can also support the cause and join Worrall and the others in their journey as the London to Paris challenge is open to anyone and everyone.
You can contribute to the cause here.
Sign up now via PCA’s event organiser pie or email Samantha Relf at sam.relf@thepca.co.uk if you have any questions.
Dan Worrall is in for the London to Paris Charity Bike Ride 🙌
The @surreycricket seamer joins the list of riders aiming to raise £50,000 to help current & former players needing support 🚴
Read why Dan wants to get involved & how to sign up ➡️ https://t.co/Ppn3LWttZw pic.twitter.com/w3zTI25qK2
— Professional Cricketers’ Trust (@CricketersTrust) May 17, 2023
