MCC AND THE CRICKETER LAUNCH 2026 COMMUNITY CRICKET HEROES CAMPAIGN

Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and The Cricketer have today launched their Community Cricket Heroes campaign for 2026 to find another team of unsung grassroots cricketing heroes from across the United Kingdom.

In a week that sees the men’s elite of the game playing at Lord’s in the first international Test match of the summer, MCC will mark Volunteers’ Week by taking it back to where

it all began for many, in the local communities around the country and recognising the people that make these clubs tick.

The campaign is run in partnership with The Cricketer magazine, and is now in its fourth year. Throughout its three previous iterations, 33 heroes of grassroots cricket have been welcomed to Lord’s as guests of the MCC President to watch a game from some of the best seats in the house.

A panel selected by MCC will have the task of selecting those who have made an outstanding contribution to their clubs and/or communities.

Samreen Begum, one of last year’s winners, was selected for the vital role she plays in providing opportunities for women to play the sport in the West Midlands. Whilst at Lord’s being recognised for her efforts, she said: “It was an amazing experience to be able to come to Lord’s as a Community Cricket Hero and watch the game from the Presidents Suite.

“The view from there was incredible.

“Honestly, I think for me personally regardless of the title that comes with my work I am more than happy to keep on going and try helping young girls as I was once in their shoes, to get them opportunities they may not have had or to try and build a pathway for them to be able to play the sport they love.”

Another of last year’s winners, Len Enoch, was voted for all the work he has done as President of Wanstead and Snaresbrook CC, he reflected: “I was overwhelmed, to be honest a little embarrassed, by the many congratulatory messages from my club Wanstead and Snaresbrook CC members and the wider cricket community.

“But this reflects the unique qualities of cricket.

“Everyone involved with the game has a story to tell, perhaps your first or maybe your only run, or ton or catch, top players score a double century one day and can be bowled out by the likes of me the next time they bat.

“We must not lose sight of this magic, Lord’s is a symbol of it, a national treasure, a reminder, all cricket lovers own a piece.”

This year’s winners will once again be invited to Lord’s, where they will be celebrated for their time and effort given to their own clubs.

MCC President Ed Smith commented: “Year four of our MCC Community Cricket Heroes campaign begins today, and once again we are asking the cricket community to help us find its unsung champions.

“Whether it's a coach transforming lives in a state school, a volunteer who has kept a club together through the toughest of times, or someone growing the women and girl's game from the ground up, we want to hear their story.

“Nominations are open now. Please don't let your hero go unrecognised.”

Editor of The Cricketer, Huw Turbervill added: “The Cricketer team always enjoys partnering with MCC on this campaign. Each year we’re inspired by the incredible winners who dedicate so much of their time to helping others fall in love with cricket. We look forward to seeing who emerges this year to earn a well-earned day at Lord’s.”

The closing date for nominations is 23.59 BST on 15 July 2026 with the selected MCC Community Cricket Heroes announced shortly after.

To nominate your hero please visit www.lords.org/heroes.

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