NEW DELHI: Nick Hockley, the chief executive of Cricket Australia, has announced his departure after five years in the role. He will leave in March next year, after the current season concludes.
According to a story in the Sydney Morning Herald, Hockey was told by Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird and other directors that he was not considered a long-term option and that he might leave on good terms.
“Hockley advised CA’s board of his intended departure after chair Mike Baird and fellow directors had decided that they did not see him as a long-term CEO, but wanted to give him the chance to exit on his own terms,” SMH reported.
“This was a difficult decision,” Hockley was quoted as saying by the newspaper.
“However, following what promises to be a blockbuster summer and with our five-year strategic plan well progressed, this is the right time to pursue another challenge, while giving the board plenty of time to find its next CEO to build on the strong foundations now in place,” he further stated.
Hockley stated that he is not thinking about saying goodbye just yet, as India is scheduled to arrive for a thrilling five-Test series in less than three weeks.
“This is not the time for goodbyes, as I remain completely focused on the season ahead and supporting the board on succession and a smooth transition.”
James Allsopp, the Head of Cricket at Cricket Australia, is the front-runner to succeed Hockley. Other candidates in the running are Australian Cricketers’ Association CEO Todd Greenberg, former women’s captain Belinda Clark, and former CA Head of Broadcast and Commercial Stephanie Beltrame.