During lunch on Day 5 of the second Ashes Test, a few members of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) were observed engaging in a verbal altercation with Australian players in response to Alex Carey’s controversial stumping of Jonny Bairstow. Notably, the incident occurred at Lord’s Long Room as the athletes were returning to the locker room. Usman Khawaja and David Warner were captured on television footage arguing with members of the MCC, which eventually went viral on social media.
MCC subsequently released a statement condemning the act and confirming the suspension of three members. Australia captain Pat Cummins later verified that players were also physically contacted, prompting cricket’s governing body to propose a comprehensive investigation. MCC also apologised and stated that some of his members’ actions were reprehensible.
“MCC can affirm that three members identified earlier today have been suspended. They will not be permitted to return to Lord’s while the investigation is ongoing, according to the statement.
“We maintain that the conduct of a small number of members was wholly unacceptable, and while Pat Cummins made no suggestion in his post-match press conference that there was a physical altercation, it remains wholly unacceptable to behave in such a manner, which is contrary to the club’s values.
“MCC condemns the behaviour observed, and we apologise to Cricket Australia once more.” As Pat Cummins himself stated, the Long Room is renowned for being “extremely hospitable”; therefore, it is extremely disappointing to be discussing inappropriate behaviour. “It has been an exciting day to conclude a fantastic five days of Test cricket,” MCC said.
On the other hand, the cricketing community has had varied reactions to Bairstow’s dismissal. Ben Stokes, captain of England, and Brendon McCullum, coach of England, both condemned Carey’s conduct, but a few legends see nothing wrong with it. However, by the time of the third Test in Headingley, the tension will have increased, which could result in another spectacular matchup.
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