Tributes to Christopher Martin-Jenkins (From The Argus)

Tributes to Christopher Martin-Jenkins

12:20pm Tuesday 1st January 2013 in Sport

Cricket journalist and former president of the Marylebone Cricket Club Christopher Martin-Jenkins has died of cancer.

Martin-Jenkins, who was 67, lived in Sussex and was a great supporter of county cricket.

He was a frequent visitor to the County Ground where his son, Robin, played for many years.

His friend and colleague Jonathan Agnew said: ''He was one of cricket's most respected writers and broadcasters.

"With modern media now preferring the views and experiences of former Test cricketers, Christopher's authority and respect was gained not through a high-profile playing career but a deep-rooted love of the game.

"Listeners to Test Match Special will be all too familiar with CMJ's eccentricities, like going to the wrong ground for the start of a Test match for example. His legendary chaotic time-keeping was very much part of his charm.

"It's doubtful if anyone has contributed more in a lifetime to the overall coverage of cricket than Christopher Martin-Jenkins."

Sussex and England wicketkeeper/batsman Matt Prior tweeted: "Just heard the terrible news about CMJ! So sad! Love and thoughts to Robin and the whole family at this time."

Former England all-rounder Sir Ian Botham added via Twitter: "Very sad to hear of the death of the 'Major' ... Christopher Martin Jenkins. Our thoughts are with the family . A true Gentleman !!"

Martin-Jenkins worked as a commentator on Test Match Special. He was also cricket correspondent for both the Daily Telegraph and the Times during his career.

In 2009, Martin-Jenkins was given an MBE and he served as the MCC's president in 2010 and 2011.

He was diagnosed with terminal cancer in January 2012, shortly after returning from covering England's tour of the United Arab Emirates for TMS.