MCC vs King’s First XI

On Friday, 10 May, we were blessed with perfect weather as we hosted the MCC at King’s to compete against our first XI team.

This year held special significance as the MCC squad featured four Old King’s Scholars: David Atkin (OKS 1994), Simon Ratcliffe (OKS 1999), Nicholas Guest (OKS 2006), and Max Dunbavand (OKS 2020).

MCC batted first, scoring 193-7 and declaring on 43 overs, with Max Dunbavand (OKS 2020) contributing 25 runs for the visitors.

Fabio Franco bowled brilliantly for King’s, claiming 3 wickets for 24 runs off 9 overs.

King’s scored 190 all out in reply, ending the game on a nail-biting finale as they fell short of the win by just three runs. 

Notable batting performances in the second innings came from Adam De Rycke and Harry Graham, who scored 59 runs and 52 runs respectively. 

Two of our Old King’s Scholars also deserve a mention for their bowling performances with Nick Guest (OKS 2006), taking 3 wickets for 42 runs off 10 overs and Dave Atkin (OKS 1994) taking 1 wicket for 15 runs off 5 overs for MCC.

MCC captain Simon Ratcliffe (OKS 1999) awarded Fabio Franco the Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling performance in the first innings.

On behalf of the MCC, Simon thanked King’s for their hospitality throughout the day, and for a great match.

He said: “Playing cricket was a highlight of my time at King’s and it is an honour to captain the MCC side here today. My nephew currently plays for the U12s here and I look forward to the day when I can return and play against him!

“I would recommend the MCC to all of the young players here today. It is a great opportunity to play with and meet like-minded people, enjoy the benefits of being a member at Lord’s, and return to school to play again!”

The match between King’s first XI team and the MCC was a memorable day of sportsmanship and, for some of the visitors, nostalgia; the thrilling end to the game was indicative of the skills and passion on display throughout the match. 

For cricket enthusiasts, this year’s “King’s in the Capital” event is an event that you won’t want to miss. Held held at the home of the MCC, Lord’s cricket ground, the event includes an opportunity to take a tour of the famous grounds, enjoy a free bar and delicious food, and catch up with fellow alumni. For ticket information please click here.