KARACHI, Aug 12: Wasim Bari, the Pakistan captain and wicket-keeper, has been given an honorary life membership of the prestigious Melbourne Cricket Club in Australia in recognition of his contribution to the world of cricket.

Bari, the current chairman of selectors, was informed of his induction as a MCC life member on Thursday via a letter, dated July 28, sent to the Pakistan Cricket Board headquarters in Lahore.

Bari, who also received a medallion and a certificate of the membership signed by the MCC president David Jones and chief executive Stephen Gough, will be provided entry at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)'s entrance for all cricket and Australian Rule Football matches played at the world famed arena in the state of Victoria.

Bari told Dawn that he was warmly touched by the hospitality of the MCC. "Indeed, I am honoured to become possibly the first Pakistani to be made a life member of one of the famous cricket clubs in the world," he reacted. "All I can say is that I appreciate the Melbourne Cricket Club for this gesture."

Bari, who is also a life member of the MCC (Melbourne Cricket Club in England) since 1984. Bari, 56, played the last of his 81 Tests in January 1984 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. In addition, he played 51 ODIs.