The England cricket team’s attempt to humour on social media in response to a thoughtful message from Pope Francis about sportsmanship led to an official apology from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The post was seen as disrespectful. Prompting the ECB to express regret and reaffirm their commitment to respectful communication with influential figures.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has issued an apology and removed an “ill-judged” social media post jokingly suggesting that Pope Francis is fond of the Ashes, a cricket series between England and Australia. This post was made, in response to a heartfelt Ash Wednesday. Message from the 88-year-old man. Who has been hospitalised. Since February due to health complications.
Pope Francis, currently admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome, has been battling double pneumonia, a serious lung infection that can cause significant breathing difficulties. On Tuesday, he took to X (Twitter) to share a reflective message for Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent—an important season of penance and preparation in the Christian calendar. In his message, he remarked, “The Ashes remind us of who we are, which does us good. It puts us in our place, smooths out the edges of our narcissism, brings us back to reality, and makes us more humble and open to one another. None of us is God; we are all on a journey.”
In a misguided attempt to engage with fans and lighten the mood, the ECB reshared Pope Francis’s message, adding, “Even @Pontifex loves the Ashes.” The term “Ashes” refers to the historic cricket Test series. Played between England and Australia, which is renowned for its intense rivalry.
After a swift backlash regarding the inappropriateness of the post, the ECB deleted it and publicly acknowledged the mistake. This was an ill-judged post and was swiftly deleted. We apologise for any offence, the organisation stated in an official communication.
Pope Francis has been closely monitored during his stay in hospital. Facing two acute respiratory failures, caused by a buildup of endobronchial mucus and subsequent bronchospasm earlier in the week. The Vatican confirmed these episodes on Monday, expressing concerns and noting that the Holy Father’s condition has recently remained stable.
Pope Francis made his first public statement. On Thursday, since being hospitalised on February 14. In a pre-recorded message, he expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he has received: “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square. I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you.”
As of the latest updates, the Vatican indicated that the Pope’s condition had improved, as he showed no signs of respiratory insufficiency. More medical updates on his health are expected on Saturday.