Lord’s welcomes women ‘on board’

LONDON: Women cricketers will finally feature on the Lord’s honour board as the 135-year-old Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has decided to recognise centuries and five-wicket hauls in ODIs too. Earlier, only centuries and five-wicket hauls in Tests were mentioned on the boards at home and away dressing rooms at Lord’s. The change is part of MCC’s refurbishment drive.

“We are delighted to now be able to recognise the same achievements for ODIs as we have done for Tests for many years. This is a landmark moment for Lord’s with women’s cricket now documented in the dressing rooms for the first time,” ESPNcricinfo quoted MCC chief executive and secretary Guy Lavender as saying.

“The honours boards are among the most popular attractions for visitors. There is a huge amount of prestige for players to see their name inscribed in history, so it is appropriate for a new installation of the boards to take place ahead of what will be such a busy year.”

This change means Sarah Taylor, Claire Taylor and Caroline Atkins of England will have their names immortalised for scoring centuries at Lord’s. Katherine Brunt and Anya Shrubsole will also feature on the honours board for taking five-wicket hauls.

Among male cricketers, players like Ricky Ponting, Michael Atherton and Muttiah Muralitharan will have their names mentioned on the board after missing out for many years.

Interestingly, the world’s highest run-scorer in both formats — Sachin Tendulkar — has a highest score of 37 in five Tests and 30 in three ODIs he has played at Lord’s. Consequently, the Indian legend continues to miss out on his name going on the honour board at Lord’s.