Cricket legend Mark Taylor calls for decorum to save Lord’s tradition
Former Australian cricketer and captain Mark Taylor has urged members of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) at Lord’s to show more respect and decorum during matches. Taylor’s plea comes after a recent incident during the second Ashes Test where some MCC members abused Australian players following a controversial dismissal.
The tradition of players walking past the members into the home and away sheds has been a longstanding feature at Lord’s. However, Taylor believes that if the poor behavior continues, it could lead to changes in access and potentially end the tradition altogether. He expressed his disappointment with the aggressive behavior exhibited by some members, particularly in the Long Room at Lord’s.
In my day, there were no ropes separating players and members. You just made your way out through the Long Room, excusing yourself around members who were sometimes smoking cigars and pipes, Taylor said.
Taylor did acknowledge the efforts of MCC CEO Guy Lavender in defusing the tensions during the incident. Lavender managed to calm down the fired-up members and subsequently suspended three individuals involved in the ugly scenes.
The controversy arose when England batsman Jonny Bairstow was controversially stumped by Australian wicket-keeper Alex Carey. Bairstow left his batting crease while the ball was still in play, and Carey quickly hit the stumps, resulting in a heated debate about the legality of the tactic and its adherence to the spirit of the game.
Former English wicket-keeper Eoin Morgan voiced his support for the Australian team, stating that he didn’t believe their actions compromised the spirit of the game. However, some members of the crowd were infuriated by the incident. Taylor emphasized the need for more understanding of the rules and suggested that Bairstow’s dismissal was a result of his own carelessness.
It’s complete naivety around Bairstow’s dismissal. The ball is not dead at any stage when Bairstow leaves his crease. He was obviously in his own little bubble, and you cannot do that, Taylor remarked.
As Lord’s continues to uphold its traditions, Taylor’s call for improved behavior from MCC members highlights the importance of respect in the game of cricket. The continuation of this iconic tradition will require a more decorous atmosphere in the Long Room and beyond. MCC members must remember the spirit of the game and show their support in a manner that upholds the integrity and dignity of cricket.
