MCC expels member involved in Lord's Long Room altercation with Australia players

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has taken decisive action following the unsavoury altercation involving some of its members and the Australian cricket team at the Lord's Cricket Ground during the 2023 Ashes series The incident, which transpired during the lunch break on the fifth day of the Lord's Test , cast a shadow over what was already a highly contentious series, ignited by the controversial stumping of Jonny Bairstow by Alex Carey.

As tempers flared, emotions ran high in the halls of the Lord's Long Room. Members of the MCC allegedly subjected the visiting Australian team to a barrage of verbal abuse, resulting in an exchange of words between Usman Khawaja and David Warner with one particular member. Security personnel were compelled to intervene, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Cricket Australia promptly called for an investigation into the incident, and the MCC, recognizing the severity of the matter, issued an unreserved apology to the Australian team. Subsequently, the MCC has expelled a member and suspended two pending a comprehensive inquiry into the unsavory episode. On October 5, the MCC delivered its verdict, shedding light on the disciplinary process that unfolded.

MCC issues statement after investigation

In a statement addressed to its members, the MCC unequivocally condemned the actions of the individuals involved, deeming their behaviour far beneath the standards expected from MCC members. 

"The actions of the three individuals in the Pavilion on the day in question fell well below the behaviour expected from our Members. The penalties set out above are the consequences of breaching the Club's Code of Conduct," an MCC statement read.

Since the details of the disciplinary process are confidential, the MCC has not disclosed the names of the penalised members. However, it has found all three members guilty of "abusive, offensive, or inappropriate behaviour or language." As a result, one member has been expelled, while the others face suspensions—one for four and a half years and the other for 30 months.