The Marylebone Cricket Club is more than just a club. It’s the world’s most active cricket establishment at a club level, the owner of the hallowed Lord’s ground and, most importantly, the guardians of the laws of the game.
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Being part of such a club’s team is indeed a great honour for many cricketers and among them is Nepal captain Paras Khadka.
The 27-year-old has captained his country since 2009, leading them through a number of ICC World Cricket League Divisions and eventually to last year’s ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh. It’s no wonder Khadka feels proud to be part of an iconic team like the MCC.
“This is a great opportunity for me and it can help boost the game in Nepal even more. Cricket is huge in my country now and me being part of the MCC and playing in the Emirates Airline T20 tournament has been greatly appreciated,” Khadka said.
Paras Khadka on United Arab Emirates for Emirates T20 Cup. pic.twitter.com/jdvuSw3Sfn
— Nepali Cricket Team (@WorldCupNepal) March 18, 2015
“To play with great names like Alastair Cook and Yuvraj Singh, among many others, provides me a chance to test myself against the best in the world.”
In addition to remaining responsible for the laws of cricket, the MCC also try to ensure that matches are played within the spirit of the game. With so much history behind it, it comes as no surprise England batsman Alastair Cook is excited to be a part of the team.
“Being part of the MCC side is a huge honour. The unique thing about playing for them is that you get to share the dressing room with so many different players who come from various parts of the country and even the world,” said Cook.
“For example, I have played against Yuvraj Singh many times so it will be very interesting to take the field alongside him. It’s a great opportunity that one gets with MCC.”
Another reason why Cook and Khadka are elated to be a part of the MCC at the Emirates Airline T20 tournament is the fact that they get to play in the UAE.
“The facilities here are really top class. Whether it’s the main stadiums or the ICC Academy, the venues here are perfect to prepare yourself,” Cook said.
On his part, Khadka is glad to be back in the UAE. “The Nepal team has played many divisional games in the UAE and we truly enjoy the facilities here.”
