Saffron Walden’s first-team captain Joe Barrs says he is hoping to do the club proud after being invited to skipper the MCC’s 13-day tour to Namibia.

The world-famous Lord’s-based club, who up until 1993 ran current affairs for worldwide cricket, embark on several tours overseas per year with eight-year member Barrs having previously represented the MCC in Uganda and Rwanda and the Channel Islands.

Now Barrs has a chance to lead a squad that includes the likes of Warwickshire’s Chris Wright and former Walden man and current Essex wicket-keeper batsman Adam Wheater.

Barrs told the Reporter: “I was completely overwhelmed when I was asked if I would like to do it [captain’s role] by the series chairman.

“It was unexpected with some of the other names going on the tour but I’m really proud and it’s an honour to do it.

“Just touring is an unbelievable experience and I hope we can do well again.”

The squad, who flew out to south-west Africa yesterday (Wednesday), will play seven matches – three T20s and four one-day clashes – during their time in the country.

He continued: “We’re expecting some big matches, especially when we play the national team.

“Namibia are traditionally a bigger cricketing nation than Uganda and Rwanda so I feel very fortunate to get the chance to play and captain this talented side.”

For updates from Namibia, follow @HomeofCricket on Twitter.