London 6 August : Richard Thompson on Saturday was named the new Chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).Thompson 55, who is a retired cricketer is expected to assume the post for five years starting on the 1st of September and will resign his current position of Chair of Surrey County Cricket Club and will take over the post that was vacant after Ian Watmore stepped down in October 2021.Thompson’s appointment was a result of an extensive selection process which was led by the Independent Director Brenda Trenowden.The Nominations Committee unanimously recommended Thompson to the ECB Board and he is in line to succeed Martin Darlow, who has been in the post of interim Chair since April.
“I am extremely elated to be the Chair of the ECB in an extremely crucial moment for cricket.Cricket has allowed me to have the opportunity to meet a diverse array of extraordinary people.Their dedication, passion, and love of the sport is exactly what I would like to harness, in order to propel our game to new levels across England and Wales.”
“Cricket is the sport that should be considered to be one of the most inclusive in the nation, welcoming people from all backgrounds, and helping to bring communities together.In the communities where we have not been able to meet our goals I will do my best to rebuild their faith in the sport.”
“With the Men’s and Women’s Ashes on the horizon, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in October, and the recent success in our red ball sport, with hosting the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026, we have a lot to come of our team.”
“I am eager to use my knowledge and passion for cricket in using this chance to give cricket a new beginnings.Together with the Board and the senior leaders of the ECB We will also work with counties as well as the recreation game.
Collaboration and partnership will be crucial to the future of our sport,” said Thompson in an official statement.
“We are thrilled to welcome Richard as Chair of the ECB as Chair.His mix of extraordinary expertise in cricket administration and commercial helps us expand and diversify the game while also guiding the game when we face a variety of financial challenges.”
“I’d as well express many thank you in the name of the ECB to Martin Darlow, for his excellent leadership in the last few months.Cricket has had numerous issues in 2022.Martin has been instrumental in steering the ship to the point of Richard’s arrival.I’m glad that he’ll continue to offer his valuable wisdom and insights in his position as the Deputy of the Board.of the Board,” stated Brenda.
Thompson has been the Chair at Surrey since 2010.He has been crucial in the club’s success in and out of the field.”Everyone is at Surrey County Cricket Club would like to felicitate Richard on the new position.The sport is in better hands.Through his time in our club, his love for cricket was apparent for everyone to be able to see.”
“Richard has a idea of the future of cricket, one that will garner support from all over the sport and beyond.Richard has led a time of remarkable change in Surrey and his work as the Chair of the club has been exceptional.”
“Our Treasurer Martin Eadon will step into the position of Chair on September 1st as we start the process of selecting Richard’s successor but for now , the Club wants to show our gratitude for Richard for the tremendous influence he has had on Surrey,” said Surrey CEO Steve Elworthy.
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