MCC Young Cricketers

MCC's Young Cricketers programme demonstrates the Club's determination to foster new talent and maintain its reputation as the world's most active cricket-playing club.

After benefiting from expert coaching, intensive playing programmes and world-class facilities, many MCC Young Cricketers proceed to enjoy successful careers in county or even international cricket.

The most famous 'graduates' of the MCC Young Cricketers programme include England's Ian Botham and Phil Tufnell, plus Australia's Mark Waugh.

The 2007 season has seen more success for the hard-working 'YCs'. Joel Pope, Alex Hales and Andy Sutton all signed with first-class counties (Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Somerset respectively).

Former Young Cricketer and Ireland World Cup star, Will Porterfield, also signed to a county, Gloucestshire at the end of 2007.

They follow in the footsteps of other recent MCC Young Cricketers and will hope to emulate - Hamish Marshall (now an established member of the New Zealand team), Alex Gidman (who has captained England 'A') and Caroline Atkins (who has been selected by England) - and earn international recognition.

However, the Young Cricketers programme also develops the non-sporting skills of its participants, to ensure that they have a number of non-cricketing career options. Expert advice is available to all Young Cricketers when they leave the staff, to help them decide on the next stage in their career.

Find out more about the range of courses available to MCC Young Cricketers.

Read about what the future may hold for an MCC Young Cricketer who does not fulfil his or her cricket ambitions.