MCC postpone out-matches until May in light of COVID-19 pandemic

The MCC’s clash with Essex in the annual Champion County curtain-raiser fixture, which had been planned to take place from March 24-27 in Galle, was cancelled on March 13

The MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) has confirmed that all of its out-matches that were due to take place in April have been postponed.

The announcement follows advice provided by the government and Public Health England in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The club revealed that it expects games to resume at the beginning of May, while explaining that the situation remains under constant review. MCC teams were due to play 64 games through April.

A statement from chief executive and secretary Guy Lavender read: “It goes without saying that the health and safety of our members, players and all who we work with is absolutely paramount. It is for this reason that I have therefore taken the difficult decision to postpone these fixtures.

“Everyone at MCC is sorry to bring you this news and for any inconvenience it may cause you, however, in the circumstances, we believe it is necessary.

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“The aim will be to rearrange postponed fixtures where possible but given the enormity of the fixture list, and the limited time in which games can be played, this cannot be guaranteed. Again, the situation will be reviewed continually and the cricket office will discuss this with the club’s opponents and players.

“I know this will come as unwelcome news but we are currently living in difficult times and I hope you appreciate why I have needed to take this decision. Once again, we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank everyone for their understanding of this unprecedented situation.”

The MCC’s clash with Essex in the annual Champion County curtain-raiser fixture, which had been planned to take place from March 24-27 in Galle, was cancelled on March 13.