Cricketers get skin cancer tests

Time spent in the sun by cricketers increases the risk of skin cancer

All of the Professional Cricketers Association's members will be screened for skin cancer for the first time.

The union organised the programme after one in seven county players were referred to specialists when potential melanomas were found during check-ups.

Although 15% of those screened so far will be given further tests, it is hoped most will be given the all-clear.

Several Australian players, including Worcestershire's Ashley Noffke, have had melanomas removed in recent years.

'Very important'

So far, the PCA has organised screenings with the skin specialists sk:n clinics for more than 300 cricketers, and those already screened will be given further tests.

David Wigley, a player with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, said his fellow professionals were increasingly aware of the need for the tests.

"A lot of the guys spend time in Australia and New Zealand - diseases are rife out there," he said.

These lads are getting a lot of sun very early in their live Dr Rob Burd Dermatologist

"Protection is a habit they get used to."

Skin cancer specialist Dr Rob Burd of sk:n has been carrying out screenings for the PCA.

He said cricketers, who can spend up to eight hours a day in the sunshine when fielding and batting, are more exposed than most.

"It's very important - these lads are getting a lot of sun very early in their lives," he added.

Skin cancer is the second most common form of cancer in young adults, with nearly 200 cases reported in the UK every day.

Worcestershire County Cricket Club Chief Executive Mark Newton welcomed the PCA's move.

"It's something as we all grew up that we never heard of," he said.

"But for modern cricketers, so many hours in the sun, it needs checking every year."

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