Ex-Sidley cricketer appointed to MCC post

Australian Keith Bradshaw, who spent the summer of 1986 with the Gullivers-based club, has been named as the new secretary and chief executive of Marylebone Cricket Club.

Sidley life member Phil White was in touch with his former teammate only last week when he was told to keep tabs on the MCC website. "I couldn't believe my eyes. It's a fillip for us because there are quite a few people at the club who remember him. He's a fantastic guy and a real competitor."

White, who opened the bowling with all-rounder Bradshaw during Sidley's first season in the Sussex County League, went on: "He was tremendous for us, probably the best player I have seen up close. He scored a lot of runs."

Bradshaw, who played first-class cricket for Tasmania where he was vice-captain under David Boon, will succeed Roger Knight in October.

The appointment of the 42-year-old coincides with Sidley celebrating its centenary season, the highlight being a match against MCC in August.