Julian Metherell will become the next President of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), with Ed Smith confirming his successor at the club's 239th Annual General Meeting. He is set to assume the role on October 1, 2026.
Metherell, an MCC member for 40 years, has recently been part of the club's committee and was closely involved in its first major step into franchise cricket. He led negotiations during the England and Wales Cricket Board's sale of a 49% stake in London Spirit (based out of Lord's) and now chairs the franchise following the transition to new ownership last year.
A finance professional by background, Metherell spent over a decade at Goldman Sachs, including a stint as CEO of its UK investment banking arm, and later worked in the energy sector. He has also served as Non-Executive Chair of the Professional Cricketers' Association.
In a statement, Metherell said he was honoured to take on the role. "I am deeply honoured to take on the role of MCC President, following in the footsteps of many of my cricketing idols. I have a long connection with MCC and I have many cherished memories at Lord's.
"This is a really exciting time to be involved with MCC, especially as it starts a new era of ownership of a professional cricket team and I am looking forward to driving forward both the Club and London Spirit."
Lord's is scheduled to host both men's and women's Ashes Tests in 2027 during Metherell's tenure.
