Ed Smith, the former England cricketer and Chief Selector, has been named as the next President of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). He will begin his 12-month term on 1 October 2025, succeeding the current President, Lord King of Lothbury.
The announcement was made at MCC’s Annual General Meeting, held at Lord’s Cricket Ground, the spiritual home of cricket.
Former England cricketer and selector takes the helm
Smith had a distinguished playing career, representing Kent, Middlesex, and England over 13 seasons. He scored nearly 13,000 first-class runs, including 34 centuries, and also represented Cambridge University, graduating with a double first in History.
Following his retirement in 2008, Smith moved into the media world, authoring five books and writing for prominent publications including The Times and the New Statesman. He has also presented on both radio and television, notably as part of the BBC Test Match Special team.
Leadership credentials extend beyond the pitch
In 2018, Smith became Chief Selector for the England men’s cricket team. His tenure saw England win their first-ever ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and deliver strong performances across all formats.
Outside of cricket, Smith co-founded the Institute of Sports Humanities (ISH), an organization committed to cultivating leadership in sport. ISH delivers the MA Leadership in Sport in collaboration with Loughborough University London.
“It is a huge honour to succeed Lord King as President of MCC,” said Ed Smith. “Lord’s has been a special part of my life – as a cricket fan, a player and then as a selector. I am deeply committed to serving the Club – and the whole game – to the best of my ability.”
A pivotal year ahead for MCC and women’s cricket
Smith’s presidency will coincide with major developments at Lord’s, including hosting the Final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026. Additionally, the ground will host Women’s Test cricket for the first time during his term – a historic milestone in the evolution of the women’s game.
Lord King, the outgoing MCC President, said: “The choice of my successor meets the twin criteria of being an outstanding first-class cricketer who played for England and a highly intelligent author and educator who is ideally equipped to help MCC navigate the challenges ahead.”
