MCC Begin 2012 By Heading For Thailand

MCC are kicking-off their 2012 overseas touring programme tomorrow with a thirteen day tour to Thailand.

Reigate Priory Cricket Club all-rounder, William Hodson (son of MCC President Phillip Hodson), will captain a diverse touring party, which comprises of MCC Members from across the country.  The players will pit their skills against the Thailand national side in three 40 over matches, in addition to playing four fixtures against a mix of the top club sides from across the nation. 

They will also deliver three special coaching sessions for local primary schools.

The thirteen-man squad will be looking to share their ample playing experience with the fast-developing Cricket Association of Thailand (CAT).  Granted Associate Membership of the International Cricket Council in 2005, the CAT is widely recognised as boasting an excellent playing infrastructure, with significant growth occurring at a grassroots level over the past ten years.
MCC Head of Cricket, John Stephenson, said:

“The Cricket Association of Thailand has done a superb job in recent times to spread the game and increase participation rates.  Since the Club last visited just over ten years ago, significant strides have been made, and it is hoped that this tour will contribute to building the identity of Thailand within the international cricketing community.

“I am absolutely delighted that the Club can continue to support the development of cricket in Thailand, and hope that the MCC team will provide challenging opposition to assist with raising playing standards.”

MCC will also be touring Canada, Italy and Tanzania in 2012.