Heyhoe-Flint and Radley honoured

Rachael Heyhoe-Flint in her playing days

Former England women’s captain Rachael Heyhoe-Flint and MCC head coach Clive Radley have been honoured in the Queen’s New Year Honours List.

Heyhoe-Flint will receive an OBE and Radley an MBE for their services to sport.

Heyhoe-Flint, now 68, led England to World Cup glory in 1973, the highlight of a glittering playing career during which she did much to boost the profile of women’s cricket.

A former England hockey international, she was awarded the MBE in 1972, and became the first woman elected to the full Marylebone Cricket Club committee in 2004.

Radley, the 63-year-old former Middlesex batsman who played eight Tests for England in 1978, is recognised for his efforts as MCC head coach, a role he has filled with distinction since 1991.

ECB chief executive David Collier expressed his delight at the news of Heyhoe-Flint and Radley’s awards.

Clive Radley on Middlesex duty before he turned to coaching

“I am sure I can speak on behalf of the ECB when I express my delight that Rachael has received the OBE,” Collier said.

“She was a true pioneer for women’s cricket and much of the status that the women’s game holds now is down to her efforts.

“She captained the England team for 12 years but also promoted the sport after her retirement through her newspaper and broadcasting work.

“She has also worked tremendously hard on behalf of the Lady Taverners and everyone feels that this award is extremely well deserved.

“Clive Radley also richly deserves his honour. He not only had a distinguished playing career with both Middlesex and England, playing in eight Test matches and averaging more than 48, but he has also chosen to put something back into the game.

“Since taking over from Don Wilson as the MCC head coach he has helped countless youngsters both enjoy and improve their cricket. We congratulate him on this recognition.”