The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has taken steps to prevent future incidents of confrontation between members and players at Lord's Cricket Ground. Following the suspension of three members for their behavior during the second Ashes Test, the MCC has implemented new measures to ensure that members do not come into close proximity with players walking through the Lord's Long Room.
Effective from Sunday, when the Australian women's team plays against England in the women's Ashes series, members will be directed away from players when they enter or exit the ground via the Long Room. This decision has been made to avoid any untoward incidents, particularly in anticipation of a packed crowd.
The MCC faced severe criticism and embarrassment after video footage emerged showing unruly patrons directing abusive language towards the Australian team as they ascended the stairs following the controversial stumping of English batter Jonny Bairstow. Such behavior tarnished the reputation of the MCC and prompted the need for stricter measures.
The club has issued a warning to its members, stating that a tougher stance will be taken if any such incidents are repeated in the future.
Mark Lavender, the MCC's chief executive, emphasized that the privilege of close access to players will be impacted for future games. Instead, members will be guided away from the stairwells during the teams' entrances and exits.
"We will be restricting members' access in and around the stairwells at times when the teams are coming on or off the pitch," Lavender explained. "During those periods, members will be required to wait at the ground floor or top floor level, with no access to either staircase."
Lavender also highlighted the need for better member behavior and mutual accountability. Members are expected to not only heed the instructions of stewards but also monitor each other's conduct.
"It is unacceptable for any of us to point the finger of blame at others unless we are willing to intervene ourselves when we see behaviors which fall short of what is expected of members," Lavender added.
MCC chair Bruce Carnegie-Brown echoed Lavender's sentiments in a letter addressed to the members, expressing deep disappointment in the behavior displayed.
"The members shown on camera have brought shame on MCC," Carnegie-Brown wrote. "Their actions hinder our efforts to promote the positive aspects of our club and celebrate the game of cricket. They inhibit our ability to fulfill our role as guardians of the laws of cricket and the spirit of cricket."
By implementing these new measures, the MCC aims to prioritize player safety, promote respectful behavior among its members, and ensure that Lord's Cricket Ground remains a welcoming and exemplary venue for cricket matches.