Ashes 2023: MCC suspends three members after clash with Australian cricket team on Day 5 of Lord’s Test

Alex Carey’s controversial stumping of Jonny Bairstow did not sit well with a few members of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) as they were spotted getting involved in a verbal spat with Australian players during Lunch on Day 5 of the second Ashes Test. Notably, the incident happened at the Lord’s Long Room when the players were walking back to the dressing room. The television footage captured Usman Khawaja and David Warner arguing with the MCC members, which eventually went viral on social media.

Condemning the act, MCC later released a statement confirming that they have suspended three of their members. The custodians of the laws of cricket also proposed a thorough investigation as Australia skipper Pat Cummins later confirmed that players were physically contacted as well. MCC also apologised and stated that the behaviour of a few of his members was unacceptable.

“MCC can confirm it has suspended three Members identified from earlier today. They will not be permitted back to Lord’s whilst the investigation takes place,” the statement read.

“We maintain that the behaviour of a small number of Members was completely unacceptable, and whilst there was no suggestion by Pat Cummins in the post-match press conference that there was any physical altercation, it remains wholly unacceptable to behave in such a way, which goes against the values of the Club.

“MCC condemns the behaviour witnessed and once again we re-iterate our apology to Cricket Australia. We are thoroughly disappointed to be talking about poor behaviour when the Long Room, as stated by Pat Cummins himself, is otherwise renowned for being “really welcoming”. It has been a thrilling day to finish off a wonderful five days of Test cricket,” MCC added.

On the other hand, Bairstow’s dismissal has received mixed reactions from the cricketing world. England skipper Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum condemned Carey’s act, but few legends see nothing wrong in it. Nevertheless, cometh the third Test in Headingley, more tension is going to build, which can result in another fantastic clash.