THE Kia Oval is to be renamed in celebration of Surrey legend Micky Stewart’s 90th birthday.
The iconic stadium in South London will instead be called the ‘Micky Stewart Oval’ throughout the LV= County Championship clash between Surrey and Yorkshire from September 20 to 23.
Micky Stewart will have the Kia Oval renamed after him for his 90th birthdayGetty
Kia have agreed to relinquish naming rights for the four days in recognition of Stewart’s incredible 75-year association with Surrey County Cricket Club.
Club members have been able to watch a day’s cricket from within the Micky Stewart Members’ Pavilion since 2017.
But now all supporters can enjoy a game of County cricket under the Stewart banner.
Micky Stewart OBE has served Surrey as a player, captain, coach, cricket manager and President – as well as playing football for Charlton and Wimbledon.
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He became a member of the club in 1947 and made his playing debut in 1954.
The right-handed batter, who featured in eight Tests for England, became a mainstay in a Surrey side that won a record seven Championships in a row between 1952 and 1958.
His son Alec is the current Director of Cricket at Surrey having enjoyed his own successful playing career.
Stewart Sr turns 90 on September 16 and he will receive ‘Keys to the Oval’ in a special presentation at the Oval on Day Two against Yorkshire.
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Stewart – who will also receive Freedom of the City of London – said: “When I heard what the club had planned, I was utterly and completely overcome and found it difficult to believe.
“I first saw inside The Oval during the Second World War.
“I have been a member since 1947 and it has been a privilege to have served the club as player, captain, coach, cricket manager and President.
“I myself and my family will feel exceptionally proud during the final match of the season particularly as it is against Yorkshire.”
Stewart joined Surrey CCC as a member in 1947 and is a true legend of the clubGetty Read More