MCC WOMEN’S CRICKET day 2021 marked a memorable occasion, with mcc PLAYERS being the first to play 100-ball match on the main ground, concluding with a panel discussion on the women’s game.

On Thursday 29 April, MCC players enjoyed their return to the Home of Cricket for MCC Women’s Cricket Day, taking to the main Ground as the first to play the 100-ball format at Lord’s; ahead of the Ground being the host venue for the London Spirit Women and Men in The Hundred, when the inaugural tournament begins this summer.

To mark this occasion, MCC concluded the day’s play by hosting a special event to discuss the continuing shift in attitude and momentum for Women’s and Girls’ cricket. 

A prestigious panel comprising players and leaders, on and off the field, were joined by former England captain, Clare Connor for an insightful discussion on developing and increasing opportunities for women and girls in cricket.

Clare began the discussions with Dr Sarah Fane, Director of MCC Foundation and Ricky Reynolds, Head of MCC Community who spoke about increasing grassroots participation and the initiatives and actions MCC has in place to develop greater access to the game for girls and women both locally, nationally and internationally.

ECB Head of the Hundred Women’s Competition & Female Engagement, Beth Barrett-Wild, discussed with Clare the role of the new competition and how it aims to pave the way for a more gender balanced sport.

This was followed by panel members Claire Taylor, former England player and current Chair of MCC Cricket committee and Middlesex Women’s captain, Naomi Dattani - recently awarded one of the first ever professional domestic women's contracts - discussing the professionalisation of the women’s game.

MCC Chief Executive & Secretary, Guy Lavender closed the fascinating discussion, commenting on the progress that has been made in supporting the advancement of women’s and girls’ cricket, and the part that MCC can play to deliver cricket opportunities for all.   

Speakers and Panellists: