🔥 Match Preview: Munster Heat vs Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC)
📅 Tuesday 27th May
🕚 11:00 AM Start
📍 Cork Harlequins Cricket Club, Farmers Cross, Cork
🏏 40 Overs per side
🎟️ Spectators Welcome | MCU Photographer in Attendance
🌟 A Showcase of Talent and Tradition in Munster
The stage is set for a marquee fixture in the Munster cricket calendar as Munster Heat welcome the world-renowned Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to Cork Harlequins CC for a prestigious 40-over friendly. Though tagged as a “friendly,” there is no doubt both sides will treat this as a serious competitive opportunity — particularly for the young and emerging talent in the Heat setup.
MCC, one of cricket’s most iconic institutions, are known for fielding strong, balanced invitational teams. Their tours are rich in tradition and competitive quality, providing a formidable test for any regional representative side. Tuesday’s clash promises not only competitive cricket but also a celebration of sporting values, sportsmanship, and the growth of the game in Munster.
🔥 Munster Heat Squad
- Mark Adrianatos Cork County CC
- Thorne Prophet Cork County CC
- Hamidullah Safi Cork County CC
- Denith Sumanasinghe Cork Harlequins CC
- Seneth Sumanasinghe Cork Harlequins CC
- Usman Sherzad Co. Kerry CC
- Sunil Gautum Cork County CC
- Bakhtyar Nabi Cork County CC
- Cronan Healy Browne Cork County CC
- Zubair Hasan Khan Cork County CC
- William Shields Limerick CC
- Awais Saghir Co. Kerry CC
- Mark Donnelly Cork County CC
🔥 MCC Irish XI
- JB Tector*
- Reece Malone
- Harry Dyer
- M Sane
- B Jarman
- FA Yates
- FB Tucker
- PKD Chase
- TW Murphy
- J Cassidy†
- Swapnil Modgill
🧢 Coach’s View – Jeremy Bray
“I’m very much looking forward to the Heat’s first game of the year against a strong MCC side. We have a nice mix of youth and experience with Cork County CC all-rounder Mark Adrianatos bolstering the batting lineup. I’m particularly excited to see young players like Mark Donnelly, Cronan Healy Browne (now a left-arm wrist spinner!), Seneth Sumanasinghe, and William Shields getting a chance to show how far they’ve come. Although it’s a friendly, I have no doubt both teams will be eager to perform.”
Coach Bray’s comments reflect the underlying importance of this match: a platform for development, yes — but also a gauge of readiness for the season ahead.
🔍 Key Players to Watch
🧤 Mark Adrianatos
A powerful presence in the top of the order, the Cork County CC all-rounder brings international experience and quality to the Heat’s batting unit. His performance will be crucial to anchoring the innings and providing the composure needed against high-level bowling. In addition, he is an accurate and effective seamer with the ball.
🌀 Cronan Healy Browne
Now reinvented as a left-arm wrist spinner, Browne is one of Munster’s most intriguing prospects. This match could be his breakout moment against seasoned MCC batters.
🧒 Mark Donnelly & William Shields
Both players have shown consistent growth through the youth ranks. Tuesday gives them an early-season test against an elite opposition, and an opportunity to push their case for higher honours.
🧠 Senith & Denith Sumanasinghe
The Sumanasinghe brothers bring flair and balance — Dineth offering control and grit, while Seneth, in particular, is noted for his development over the winter.
🎯 What to Expect
- Batting Depth: Munster Heat’s top six is built to attack and consolidate, depending on conditions.
- Bowling Variety: With options like Adrianatos, Sherzad, Nabi, Saghir, and Browne, the Heat boast an adaptable attack.
- MCC Challenge: The touring side will likely feature a blend of county experience and club excellence, ensuring no easy contests.
👥 Support the Future of Munster Cricket
This fixture is more than just a match — it’s an opportunity to celebrate grassroots growth, witness young talent in action, and honour one of cricket’s most enduring visiting teams. Spectators are encouraged to attend, with the MCU photographer on hand to capture the day.
📸 Follow @MunsterCricket on social media for live updates and post-match coverage.
Gallery of the last MCC visit!
