The MCC has issued an apology after television cameras picked up an exchange between its members and the Australian team.
Pat Cummins’ side were walking through the Long Room at Lord’s at lunch when footage showed an apparent exchange of words between spectators in the room and the Australian players.
It comes after a dramatic morning session saw Jonny Bairstow controversially dismissed by Alex Carey.
The Australian wicketkeeper stumped Bairstow, who left his crease after seemingly believing the ball was dead at the end of the over.
England captain Ben Stokes then smashed his way to a century leaving the hosts needing 128 runs on 243 for six at lunch.
A spokesperson for the MCC read: “The Long Room is unique in world cricket and the great privilege of players passing through the Pavilion is very special.
“After this morning’s play, emotions were running high, and words were unfortunately exchanged with some of the Australian team, by a small number of Members.
“We have unreservedly apologised to the Australian Team and will deal with any Member who has not maintained the standard we expect through our disciplinary processes.
“It was not necessary to eject anyone from the ground and I am pleased to say that there was no repeat of this as the players resumed the field for this afternoon’s session.”
https://twitter.com/HomeOfCricket/status/1675491441450135553v
A spokesperson for Australia said: “Australian management has requested the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) investigate several incidents involving spectators in the members area during lunch on day five of the Lord’s Test.
“It is alleged players and staff from the Australian team were verbally abused, with some being physically contacted, as they made their way to lunch through the members area.”
Junior Murray chronicles his journey in new autobiography "Windball to Windies"
Former West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Junior Murray has released his long-awaited autobiography, "Windball to Windies," offering an intimate glimpse into the highs and lows of his cricket career and personal life. The Grenadian cricketer, who was a mainstay of the West Indies team in the 1990s, uses the book to reflect on his rise from humble beginnings to the international stage, providing readers with a candid account of the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way.
According to Caribbean sports writer, Michael Bascombe, in this 13-chapter memoir, Murray takes the reader on a journey from his early days playing windball cricket in Grenada to his elevation to the West Indies team. He gives detailed insights into the individuals who influenced his career, from school coaches to international mentors, painting a picture of the hard work and dedication that went into achieving his dreams. Among the highlights is his recollection of the unforgettable Adelaide Test match and the warm homecoming he received after the tour of Australia, a moment that Murray describes as a turning point in both his career and personal life.
"Windball to Windies" does not shy away from the difficult moments, either. Murray delves into the intricacies of team selection, his struggles with form, and his eventual departure from international cricket, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective on the pressures of representing the West Indies. He also discusses the founding of the Junior Murray Cricket Academy, revealing his passion for giving back to the sport by nurturing the next generation of cricketing talent in the Caribbean.
The book’s foreword is written by Mr. Victor Ashby, the former principal of Grenada Boys' Secondary School (GBSS) and a significant figure in Murray's development as a cricketer. Ashby's influence on Murray's decision to pursue cricket is a central theme in the autobiography, with Murray expressing his gratitude for Ashby's unwavering support during his formative years. "I thank you for your vivid recollection of my school days, the decisive moment when I chose cricket over football, and your leadership role in that process," Murray writes, underscoring the importance of mentorship in his journey.
The release of "Windball to Windies" coincides with Grenada's 50th Independence anniversary, adding a layer of significance to Murray's story. He reflects on how his cricketing journey mirrors the nation's broader narrative of resilience and progress. In a nod to the theme of Grenada's Golden Jubilee, "One People, One Journey, One Future," Murray acknowledges that his personal story is just one part of Grenada's rich tapestry of history and culture. "My cricket story is one of the many stories in the intriguing journey of our people," he states, highlighting how his experiences have been shaped by the island’s growth and spirit.
While the autobiography is currently available, Murray has announced plans for official book launches in Grenada and within the Caribbean diaspora. These events will offer an opportunity for fans and readers to connect with the former cricketer, who hopes to inspire and share his experiences with those who have followed his career. Through "Windball to Windies," Murray not only chronicles his own journey but also pays homage to the sport that has given him so much, cementing his legacy as both a player and a mentor.
Cornwall's five-wicket haul seals playoff spot for Barbados Royals
Recalled Rahkeem Cornwall starred with a five-wicket haul as Barbados Royals crushed St Kitts & Nevis Patriots by nine wickets at Kensington Oval to book a spot in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) playoffs.
Enjoying the spin-friendly surface, Cornwall claimed 5-16 as the Patriots batting order lost 7-31 and were bowled out for 110 in the last over to fall well short of a competitive total.
In-form opener Quinton de Kock (59 not out off 38 balls) was unstoppable as the Royals mowed down the target in the 12th over.
The Royals (5-1) cemented their spot at the top of the CPL ladder, while the Patriots’ (1-7) bid for a playoffs berth is all but over.
After a delayed start due to a wet pitch, the Royals elected to bowl and it proved the right move. The Patriots struggled in the PowerPlay leading to a frustrated Evin Lewis, a centurion earlier in the tournament, holing out in the fourth over.
Skipper Andre Fletcher finally broke the shackles with a targeted assault on Jason Holder before a rush of blood saw him charge down the pitch at Cornwall’s first ball only to miss the shot and be stumped.
Cornwall was recalled after three straight ducks with the bat, but continued to make an immediate impact with the ball after luring Mikyle Louis into a false shot.
He couldn’t complete a hat-trick, but soon claimed his third wicket with the scalp of Wanindu Hasaranga as the Patriots crashed to 61-6 at the midpoint.
Cornwall wasn’t nearly done after dismissing Odean Smith then completing his five-wicket haul when Ryan John was brilliantly caught by Alick Athanaze in the deep.
The Patriots were in major danger of being dismissed for a total under 100, but Joshua da Silva and Anrich Nortje joined forces in a 39-run ninth partnership – the best of the innings – to avoid that ignominy.
But the Patriots were unable to take early wickets as de Kock and Kadeem Alleyne made it look easy with an opening stand of 57 in the powerplay. After smashing a ton against Guyana Amazon Warriors, de Kock continued his rich form with sublime shots around the wicket.
He capitalised after being given out lbw to Kyle Mayers in the fifth over only for the decision to be overturned on review. The Patriots finally ended the stand when Alleyne on 25 was hit on the pads by Hasaranga, who surprisingly had been held back until the sixth over.
But de Kock rolled past another half-century as the Royals emphatically booked a playoff berth.
Jordan joins TKR for remainder of 2024 CPL season; Sowter joins Amazon Warriors as temporary replacement for Tahir
England international Chris Jordan will join the Trinbago Knight Riders for the remainder of the 2024 season.
The experienced all-rounder will replace USA international Ali Khan who was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to injury.
Jordan previously represented the Knight Riders in the 2019 edition of the CPL, taking seven wickets in five matches.
The Guyana Amazon Warriors have signed leg spinner Nathan Sowter as a temporary replacement for Imran Tahir who is currently recovering from injury and is expected to be unavailable for around 10 days.
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