Presidents of MCC

Marylebone Cricket Club was formed in 1787 and for almost 200 years, was the governing body for cricket throughout the world. Its sphere of influence covered all matters of administration of the game and it had responsibility for all overseas tours undertaken by England's cricketers. Last but not least, the MCC was and still is responsible for the Laws of Cricket and there is a Standing Committee that examines all recommendations for change. There have been more than 200 Presidents of MCC. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the office was often occupied by members of the nobility, many of whom recommended and secured as their successors family members or friends. In recent years, a number of well known amateur cricketers - Cowdrey, May, Dexter have filled the role and in 2004/05, Tom Graveney became the first professional cricketer to be elected to the office. In 1968, MCC relinquished control of the game and the ICC and TCCB became the ruling bodies. MCC presidents chaired the ICC until 1993 but no longer. As the influence of MCC has diminished, so has the importance of the Presidency of the club.
Today, it is largely an honour bestowed on those who have given great service to cricket as player or administrator or both. For his book, Jonathan Rice has researched many hitherto untapped sources and has produced a fascinating history of the office and of the characters that have filled it over more than 200 years. Every cricket lover will want to read this book.