READING Blue Coat teacher Phil Wise reflected on a ‘memorable day’ after he captained the MCC to victory against Iceland last Tuesday.

It was the first time Iceland have played cricket in England, but they put in a plucky display before falling to a 98-run reverse at Hampton Hill.

After losing the toss, the MCC were asked to bat, but Andy Wales (59) and Steve Mehra (48) provided crucial innings which helped them declare on 235-6 from 44 overs.

Iceland battled gamely in reply and were right in the contest at 115-3, but a collapse inspired by a magnificent catch by Clint McCabe meant they were eventually dismissed for 137.

Wise told the Chronicle it had been a fantastic occasion, stating: “Throughout the day Hampton Hill provided incredible hospitality and by mid afternoon there was a large crowd – most of whom were rooting for Iceland.

“It was quite a surreal day to play against a national side making their first tour of England, and it got even stranger when we had to herd some deer off the pitch, although the Icelanders were not worried when play was interrupted.

“Their development as a cricketing nation is a great story – they have an incredible and noble ambition to build a new ground in Iceland which is harder than it sounds – so it was a real honour to captain the side.

“It was an excellent game and a memorable day.”