MCC v Afghanistan, March 2006

Thursday 23rd March 2006

An historic match between MCC and Afghanistan took place at the Police Gymkhana Ground, Mumbai on Thursday 23rd March, attracting the attention of national and international media.

The match was the culmination of many months of hard work, which began several years ago when an MCC Member, Mark Scrase-Dickens, raised the issue of Afghan cricket at the Club AGM. Cricket has developed rapidly in Afghanistan in the intervening period, and the Committee was keen to assist this process, as it is in all emerging cricket-playing nations.

The popularity of the game has grown particularly rapidly since Afghans who had sought refuge in Pakistan following the Soviet invasion began to return to their home country, bringing with them a new found love of cricket. The talent demonstrated by the Afghans left the MCC players in no doubt of their aptitude for the game.

A short boundary helped the flow of runs as the Afghans, batting first, reached a formidable total of 356 for 7 from 40 overs. Centurion Mohammed Nabi made the most of his chances, finishing on 116 not out. With the Club President looking on, the MCC players struggled to maintain the required run rate, and lost quick wickets early in the innings. Despite a top score of 43 from Stephen Brogan, the Club was beaten soundly, by 179 runs.