Our most prestigious fixture of the year sees us take on the mighty Marylebone Cricket Club — better known as the MCC — whose home is the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, widely regarded as the most famous cricket ground in the world.

Year after year, they provide our sternest test: a side typically brimming with players who have represented club and country, bringing quality, experience, and no small amount of class to the beach.

Fortunately, the home side at The Ship Inn have developed their own rather effective countermeasure — a generously spirited lunch before play begins. It may not level the playing field entirely, but it certainly keeps things interesting.

This will be the 12th meeting between the sides, with the Ship holding a narrow 6–5 advantage. Which perhaps tells its own story: while the MCC may have the edge in cricketing pedigree, the Ship might just have the upper hand when it comes to… preparation.

A showpiece occasion, full of quality, tradition, and just the right amount of mischief.