Strauss backs flood appeal

England and Pakistan players have joined forces to help raise money to support millions of vulnerable people who have been affected by the floods. More than 1,400 people are estimated to have died and, according to official sources, at least 2.5 million people have been badly affected by the floods that the Pakistani authorities believe to be the worst to have hit the country in the past 80 years.

The England captain took part in a photo shoot at Edgbaston to encourage fans to support the appeal.

England captain Andrew Strauss said: "Although we hope to win the second Test match on Friday, our thoughts are with the Pakistani team and the millions of people devastated by the floods. The best way to support the relief effort in Pakistan is to give money to the DEC Pakistan Floods appeal. We have organised a collection at Edgbaston, and I urge you to pick up the phone or go online and donate."

Salman Butt, Pakistan captain, added: "Millions of people have been affected by the severe flooding in Pakistan, including the family and friends of members of the Pakistan team currently here in the UK. Please give generously and support the DEC Appeal to help those whose lives have been washed away."

British Red Cross volunteers will be collecting funds at the second npower Test match between the two countries at Edgbaston on Friday 6, Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 August.

All money raised will go to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Pakistan Floods Appeal www.dec.org.uk.