MCC teams up with European T20 Premier League to celebrate Spirit of Cricket

MCC has continued its drive to spread the word on the Spirit of Cricket this year, presenting a Spirit of Cricket Award at the conclusion of the European T20 Premier League in Dublin recently.

The award was presented as part of MCC's ongoing commitment to promoting and protecting the Spirit of Cricket around the world. It follows the success of a collaboration between MCC and ICC Europe, which saw a Spirit of Cricket Award presented at each of the three ICC Europe Men's Sub Regional World Cup Qualification this summer, along with a similar partnership with the Nepal Premier League last year.

Edinburgh Castle Rockers were awarded the Spirit of Cricket Award following an excellent campaign, recognising not only their performances in winning the inaugural tournament, but also their commitment to the values that lie at the heart of the game.

The award highlights the importance of competing hard while showing respect for opponents, teammates and match officials. It serves as a reminder that success in cricket is measured not only by results, but also by conduct.

As captain of the Edinburgh Castle Rockers, New Zealand white-ball skipper Mitchell Santner was presented with the award on behalf of the squad. His influence helped guide the Rockers to the inaugural title, beating Belfast Wolves by seven wickets in the final at Malahide.

Rob Lynch, Director of Cricket and Operations at MCC, said: “This Spirit of Cricket Award highlights the values at the heart of MCC’s global Spirit of Cricket programme - competing hard while showing respect for opponents, match officials and teammates, accepting decisions graciously, and upholding the game’s values in every situation. 

“It reinforces the belief that cricket is at its strongest when played competitively, fairly and with respect, and serves as a reminder that the game’s most enduring achievements are measured not only by trophies won, but by the values demonstrated along the way.”
 

Mitchell Santner receives the award on behalf of Edinburgh Castle Rockers from Head of MCC Cricket, Fraser Stewart

This award, along with the others that have been presented in this manner, are in addition to the main MCC Spirit of Cricket Award, established by MCC and the BBC in 2013 to honour Christopher Martin-Jenkins.