Ben Stokes to donate match fees from Pakistan Test series to floods appeal

The England Test captain confirms the gesture on social media ahead of the start of the series in Rawalpindi on Thursday (December 1)

England Test captain Ben Stokes will donate his match fees from the Pakistan series to the victims of the devastating floods that have affected more than 33 million people.

At the height of the crisis, a third of Pakistan was left underwater, leading to more than 1,700 deaths nationwide, since the monsoon season began in June.

Pakistan welcome England for their first Test series in 17 years, starting in Rawalpindi on Thursday (December 1).

"It is great to be in Pakistan for the first time for this historic series," Stokes said in a statement posted via Twitter and Instagram.

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A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy)

"To be back here after 17 years as a Test side is very exciting. There is a sense of responsibility amongst the playing and support group and to be here is special.

"The floods that devastated Pakistan earlier this year was very sad to see and has had significant impact on the country and the people.

"The game has given me a lot in my life and I feel it’s only right to give something back that goes far beyond cricket. I will be donating my match fees from this Test series to the Pakistan Flood appeal.

"Hopefully this donation can go towards the rebuilding of areas of Pakistan most affected by the flooding."

^{Wasim Akram has led the reaction (Alex Davidson/Getty Images)}

Reacting to the announcement, former Pakistan fast-bowler Wasim Akram said on Twitter: "Hats off to you! What an incredible human you are. I speak for Pakistan when I say Thank you"

Shan Masood, the Pakistan batter, added: "What a great gesture."

England men's players typically earn £14,500 per Test appearance.

In September, England men made a contribution - matched by the England and Wales Cricket Board - to the Disasters Emergency Committee ahead of the T20I series against Pakistan.

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