Hick collects MBE

Graeme Hick recieves his MBE from the Queen at Buckingham Palace today

Former England and Worcestershire batsman Graeme Hick was today presented with an MBE by the Queen and admitted the experience was “a lot more nerve-wracking than walking out at Lord’s".

Hick retired in June 2008 after surpassing Graham Gooch’s record for the most appearances in all forms of the game. He scored 136 first-class centuries, including six for England en route to 65 Test caps.

Collecting the award at Buckingham Palace, Hick, whose highest Test score at the Lord's was 101 against Zimbabwe in 2000, said: “I’m very honoured and very privileged.

“It’s an amazing moment and a lot more nerve-wracking than walking out at Lord’s, but it’s a very special day for me and my family.

“It’s something I’m sure I’ll look back on and really cherish.

“The Queen said the game had become very demanding and she asked me about some of the charity work I do in Worcestershire for kids in the area.”

Her Majesty’s comment came in recognition of the extra workload placed on players since the advent of Twenty20 in 2003.

Hick, who played 37 Twenty20 games for Worcestershire but none for England - he did, however, win 120 one-day international caps - believes the shortest form had been a huge success.

“Cricket was just looking for a facelift when Twenty20 was introduced. It’s been a great success. It’s come at a great time for cricket,” said the 43-year-old.

Asked if he thought his appearances record would be beaten, he replied: “You hope not, but it all depends on how the game develops over the next few years.

“(If they’re) playing less cricket, it’s going to be harder to achieve.”