You might not want to listen when Ian Botham tells you just how tight this summer's Ashes series is going to be. Sure, Pat Cummins will miss the opening match, but Scott Boland is a fair replacement, and England haven't won a Test on these shores in 14 years.
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But when England's greatest all-rounder starts talking about men's health, he hopes you'll be listening then.
Because Botham is bound for Wollongong as the keynote speaker at Healthier Illawarra Men's International Men's Day lunch on November 14.
Botham - one of the most recognisable names in world cricket - will join a panel including Gotcha4Life founder Gus Worland and Today Show host Karl Stefanovic, just a week out from the opening Ashes Test.
"Of course it's important. It's something Gus has been involved with for a long time, and I'm actually delighted to be able to help contribute. Men's health is very important," Botham said.
"Hopefully a lot of people come, hopefully a lot of people will listen and learn. The problem with men is, at times, they are intimidated by some of the checks you have to have. That's pretty weak, because it's a lot better than dying."
For every Test spent tormenting Australia during Ashes series in years gone by, there are countless tales of Botham helping to raise more than $40 million for charity.
It started with a walk from John o' Groats to Land's End - just a cool 1450 kilometres, for those playing at home - in 1985, with the bulk of Botham's charity walks raising money for leukaemia and diabetes research.
"My foundation started with leukemia research, and we've invested in a few more since then. It's the anniversary of the first walk coming up very shortly, which was 40 years ago," Botham said.
"We've done our share of work for four or five different diseases. At the end of the day, it's just nice to make a contribution.
"For Gus, I'd go anywhere to do it for him. He's a very funny man. A very good man, very conscious of everything around him and other people, which is a fantastic trait to have. He is, without doubt, a special man. I certainly enjoy his company, and I look forward to it when we get up to Wollongong."
The Healthier Illawarra Men International Men's Day Lunch has raised more than $350,000 since its revival in 2022.
Funds have been raised for programs designed to tackle mental health challenges, build emotional resilience, and support victims of domestic and family violence.
"Ian Botham is a sporting icon who transcends the game - he's not just known for his heroics in the Ashes, but also for the incredible work he's done to raise millions for charity," HIM chair Mark Sleigh said.
"To have someone of his stature support our cause and help us drive positive change for men's health in the Illawarra is truly special.
"Our goal is to create generational change. We want to reshape the way men think about health, mateship and masculinity - and ultimately help save lives."
