The ongoing Ashes series between England and Australia may have captured the world's attention, but there's something extra special happening at Lord's Cricket Ground this summer. A new and unique exhibition, co-curated by cricket enthusiasts, has opened its doors, telling the fascinating story of the Jewish community's rich relationship with the sport of cricket. It's the first-ever exhibition of its kind, making it a historic moment for both cricket and Jewish heritage.
The MCC Museum at Lord's, fondly known as the Home of Cricket, is now the proud host of this captivating exhibition. As cricket fans from a young age, the curators have always been intrigued by their community's historical links to the game. Now, they've had the opportunity to bring this fascinating tale to life.
Approaching the MCC with their idea of a Jewish cricket exhibition, the curators were thrilled when the MCC decided to open a Community Gallery in the Museum. This special space allows different communities to showcase their unique engagement with cricket, and the Jewish community's story would inaugurate this new chapter.
The process of curating the exhibition has been a labor of love. Items have been sourced from various collections, including the curator's personal memorabilia, the MCC's archives, and generous contributions from cricketers and their families, cricket clubs, and other collectors.
The exhibition highlights the remarkable achievements of leading Jewish cricketers throughout history. Names like Dr. Ali Bacher, who captained the iconic South African team of the late 1960s, and Ivan Mordecai Barrow, the Jamaican wicket-keeper batsman who scored the only Test century by a Jew, stand proudly in the spotlight. And let's not forget Julian Wiener and Michael Klinger, who made their mark representing Australia, and Ruth Buckstein, the only Jewish woman to have played Test cricket for Australia.
An intriguing story within the exhibition revolves around the legendary Yorkshire and England fast bowler, Fred Trueman, who claimed to have discovered his Jewish heritage later in life. Such revelations add depth and intrigue to cricket's Jewish connection.
Jewish club cricket also takes center stage in the exhibition, with Maccabi Vale, Belmont and Edgware in London, New Rover in Leeds, and Carlisle in Dublin proudly showcased for their contributions to the game.
Moreover, the exhibition sheds light on the Jewish community's off-field contributions, from Isaac Moses Marsden, who owned the land on which Lord's is located, to Aileen Cohen, who started the tradition of baking chocolate cakes for BBC Test Match Special.
The official launch of the exhibition in June witnessed a star-studded gathering, including MCC President Stephen Fry, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, and renowned Jewish cricketers. The event garnered support from former Prime Minister Theresa May, Sir Tim Rice, Howard Jacobson, and a host of cricketing legends.
The exhibition has received immense attention and praise during the ongoing Ashes Test. Cricket fans, both Jewish and non-Jewish, have been flocking to witness this historical showcase, making their visits during lunch and tea breaks. The BBC's Test Match Special and Sky's cricket coverage have featured the exhibition, furthering its reach.
The exhibition will grace Lord's for two years, welcoming visitors during match days and guided tours. Schools are also encouraged to participate, aiming to inspire the next generation of Jewish children to pursue their love for cricket.
Ultimately, the exhibition encapsulates a story of love, passion, and a shared heritage with cricket. The hope is that this historical showcase will inspire future generations to represent the Jewish community on cricket's grandest stages, perhaps even in an Ashes contest. As the ongoing series continues to enthrall fans worldwide, this exhibition adds another layer of significance to the beautiful game of cricket.