Written by: Grace Lee

Christopher Martin-Jenkins: The Voice of Cricket

Christopher Martin-Jenkins, affectionately known as CMJ, was a renowned British cricket journalist, commentator, and President of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). With a career spanning over four decades, he was the longest-serving commentator for Test Match Special (TMS) on BBC Radio, bringing the game to life for millions of listeners worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 20, 1945, in Peterborough, Martin-Jenkins was the second of three brothers. His father, a lieutenant colonel in the army, relocated the family to Glasgow, where he was stationed. After demobilization, his father returned to his job at the shipping firm Ellerman Lines, eventually becoming chairman. Martin-Jenkins' mother, a radiologist and GP, worked in the Gorbals during the war.

He attended St Bede's prep school in Eastbourne and later Marlborough College, where he developed his passion for cricket. Under the captaincy of Mike Griffith, who would later become the captain of Sussex and chairman of MCC, Martin-Jenkins played for the school team in 1962. The following year, he wrote to Brian Johnston, a legendary cricket commentator, asking for advice on how to become a cricket commentator. Johnston invited him to Broadcasting House, took him out to lunch, and told him to develop his ability and review his performance by practicing his commentating skills using a tape recorder.

University and Early Career

Martin-Jenkins went on to study Modern History at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, graduating with an upper second in 1967. During his time at Cambridge, he won two half-blues for Rugby fives but never played for the University cricket first XI, although he narrowly missed out on gaining his blue after being named 12th man for the 1967 Varsity match at Lord's.

Despite not playing for the University cricket team, Martin-Jenkins skippered the Crusaders, the University 2nd XI, during 1966 and 1967. He was also a successful captain of the Cambridge University Rugby fives team. After graduating, he worked as a journalist, writing for various publications, including The Cricketer magazine.

Career Highlights and Major Works

Martin-Jenkins' most notable achievement was his long-standing association with Test Match Special (TMS) on BBC Radio, which spanned over 40 years. He became an integral part of the TMS team, providing expert commentary and analysis to listeners worldwide. He also wrote several books on cricket, including CMJ: A Cricketing Life, which offers a fascinating insight into his life and career.

In 2009, Martin-Jenkins was appointed President of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), a position he held until 2011. He was also a respected broadcaster, working on various TV and radio programs, including BBC's Cricketer of the Year and The Ashes.

Awards and Honors

Martin-Jenkins was honored with an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2009 for his services to cricket. He was also awarded the Cricinfo Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012, recognition for his outstanding contributions to the world of cricket.

Legacy and Impact

Christopher Martin-Jenkins left an indelible mark on the cricket world. His commentary and writing inspired generations of cricket fans, and his passion for the game was evident in every broadcast and article he produced. He will be remembered as one of the greatest cricket commentators of all time, and his legacy will continue to inspire and delight cricket enthusiasts for years to come.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• Diagnosed with terminal cancer in March 2012
• Passed away on January 1, 2013, at the age of 67

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

"The game is a great leveller, and it's only when you're involved in it that you realise how humble you need to be."

As we remember Christopher Martin-Jenkins, we celebrate his life, his passion for cricket, and the joy he brought to millions of listeners and readers around the world.