John Gray

Published: 12 July, 2012
by STEVE BARNETT

FAST bowler John Gray can be excused for missing Hampstead’s next two matches in the Middlesex County Cricket League after being selected to represent the MCC in Canada.

The 29-year-old, who lives in Highbury, is part of a 14-man squad that will be taking part in five 50-over matches and two Twenty20 fixtures during the two-week tour.

He will form part of a diverse squad led by former England Test batsman Jason Gallian, which will pit their skills against a range of invitational teams selected from the top club sides.

They will also deliver three special coaching sessions for local primary school pupils, before the tour culminates with a coveted fixture against a Canada Select XI at Toronto CC.

Speaking from the airport John (pictured), who describes himself as an “express” bowler and a “powerful” batsman, said: “It’s all very exciting. It’s a great privilege to be selected for the MCC.

“I can’t wait to see what Canada has to offer.

“Cricket is an international language and I’m looking forward to building new friendships.

“It’s great to see the MCC building ties with lesser known cricket playing countries,” he added.

MCC head of cricket John Stephenson said: “I am really pleased that John has been selected for this tour, and I am certain that he will be a great ambassador for the club.

“While Canada boasts a rich cricketing heritage, there is undoubtedly vast potential and opportunity for the further development of the sport across the nation. 

“The infrastructure now employed by Cricket Canada has set the foundations for this growth to occur, and it is evident that there is a lot of ambition and passion in the ranks to make this expansion happen.

“I am delighted that the club can continue to support the ongoing development of cricket in Canada, and I hope that the 2012 MCC touring team will provide challenging opposition, and help raise playing standards among Canadian sides.” 

• John missed Hampstead’s low-scoring victory away at Teddington on Saturday in the Premier Division of the Middlesex League.
With wickets falling at regular intervals, Matt Kabir Floyd top-scored for the visitors with 24 runs as they managed just 158 off 66 overs. Skipper Mark Divin and Tom Smith amazingly helped turn it into a winning score as they took four wickets each to bowl Teddington out for 137 and earn a 21-run victory.