Ian Hopkins stands in prestigious Lord’s fixture

A very special match took place at Lord’s which saw players with Visual Impairments playing on the hallowed turf of cricket’s HQ – and standing as an umpire was Ian Hopkins – one of our officials with United Kingdom Armed Forces.

Two England international teams took part in the game, following on the strong tradition of support that VI cricket receives from Lord’s.  MCC President Mark Nicholas, actor Gordon Kennedy and comedian Adam Hills joined in the match as guests.

Ian and his BCEW colleague Daku Patel (pictured with the two captains) took charge of the game with Paul Stubbs from Middlesex scoring.

David Howells won the toss and his team batted first scoring 90 for 5 from their 10 overs with Mark Turnham top scoring with 48; the top bowler was Tokeer Ahktar – conceding just one run while taking a wicket from his over.

Ed Hossell’s side could not reach the target, as the team A bowlers kept the extras to a minimum to gain their side a 16 run victory. Both their guests had a bowl with Adam Hills conceding just six from his over, an economy only beaten by his skipper, as Chris Styles top scored for team B with 20.

However, it was a day of celebration and of fun and to see an UKAF ACO official as part of it – even better!

Photo credits: MCC/Chloe Knott