No plans for MCC merger

MCC and Middlesex are based at the famous Lord's ground

Marylebone Cricket Club insist a merger with tenants Middlesex is hypothetical and one of a number of ideas thrown up in discussing the future direction of the organisation.

Although the idea was discussed informally between MCC chief executive Keith Bradshaw and Middlesex counterpart Vinny Codrington, it is unlikely the MCC will use the route to play in organised competition any time soon.

MCC, guardians of the laws of the game, have recently canvassed the views of their 18,000 full members for suggestions on development.

One consideration would be to use the name of the most famous cricket club in the world, its wealth and general kudos in partnership with Middlesex to form a super club akin to Manchester United.

But a statement from the MCC said: “There are no plans for MCC to merge with Middlesex County Cricket Club.

“MCC’s master plan - the vision for it in the next 100 years - is at the preliminary stages of discussion.

“During this process, a range of opportunities will be considered to ensure MCC remains the leading independent voice in the game and that Lord’s retains its world-class status as the home of cricket.

“MCC remains committed to working and integrating with Middlesex in the future of Lord’s. At present, however, this does not include any plans to
merge clubs.”

Middlesex have been tenants in St John’s Wood since 1877 and Lord’s is the traditional home of English cricket both domestically and internationally.

The ground is set for a facelift, however, with a planned £100million project which could incorporate a new academy for young cricketers - the kind of facility desirable to a super-club who could oversee the development of talent.