LONDON: Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara has been confirmed as the next president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).

The legendary wicket-keeper/batsman will take up the post on Oct 1 and will serve for a period of one year as the first non-British president of the world’s most famous cricket club.

He said: “It is a huge honour to be named the next President of MCC and it is a role that I am thoroughly looking forward to. Because for me, MCC is the greatest cricket club in the world, with its global reach and continued progress for cricket on and off the pitch.

“The year 2020 is going to be yet another significant one in cricket, especially at Lord’s, and I am thrilled that I am going to be able to play a part in supporting its future as president of MCC.’

Sangakkara earned a spot on the Honours Board at Lord’s twice after hitting two centuries against England in 2014.

Current MCC president, Anthony Wreford said of Sangakkara’s appointment: “As MCC looks to broaden both our horizons and international reputation, I’m delighted that Kumar has accepted the invitation to be our next President.

“He is an outstanding individual both on and off the field and will make a huge contribution to the Club. In a World Cup and Ashes year he will also have a significant role to play as the president designate.”

Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2019

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

PAKISTAN has now registered 50 polio cases this year. We all saw it coming and yet there was nothing we could do to...
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...
Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...