Micky Stewart, a man lauded for his skill with leather and willow, has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London.
The former England international cricketer and coach, 90, was nominated for the honour by elected Member Gregory Jones QC and Lord Mayor Nicholas Lyons.
He was joined by family members, friends, and former colleagues at a private ceremony at Guildhall.
Stewart played first-class cricket for Surrey County Cricket Club from 1954 and 1972, appeared in eight Test matches for England between 1962 and 1964. A right-handed batter of note, he was also regarded as an outstanding close catcher.
He served as cricket manager for Surrey from 1979 to 1986 and for England, from 1986 to 1992.
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Rounding off an illustrious career as one of the game’s most respected figures, Stewart was appointed as director of coaching for the England and Wales Cricket Board, holding the position for five years (1992-1997).
He said: “I am incredibly proud to have been awarded the Freedom of the City of London. It is a wonderful honour for myself and my family, and something I could never have predicted.
“I am very fortunate to have been born in London, and to have been able to play all my domestic cricket for Surrey at the Oval in Kennington.
“It is such an honour to be recognised by my home city, and it was a fantastic experience to attend the ceremony with my family and friends.”
Jones described Stewart as a “remarkable sportsman and a true gentleman.”
The Lord Mayor added: “As well as earning his place in the sun, it is entirely appropriate that Micky Stewart should join the list of distinguished cricketers who have been admitted into the Freedom, including Eoin Morgan, Roland Butcher, Sir Andrew Strauss, and Ebony Rainford Brent.
“I am sure that Micky and his guests will have very fond memories of today’s ceremony for many years to come, and be assured of the great affection in which he is held.”
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