W. G. Grace in North America 1872: " A prolonged and happy picnic "

In 1872, R. A. Fitzgerald, then the secretary of the MCC, accepted an invitation to captain an amateur cricket team on a tour of Canada.

He recruited another 11 cricketers to make up the touring party; included among them was the legendary W. G. Grace, who, at 24 years of age, was at the height of his powers.

Not surprisingly, this trip was anticipated eagerly and three games in America were soon added to the itinerary. It was a triumph for the players and spectators alike. WG later recalled the tour with these words:

"The Canadian tour was a triumphal success in every way. Never did twelve cricketers work together in greater harmony and with more esprit de corps.

Relive the most enjoyable tour of them all.