Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley to step down after 5 years in charge
Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Nick Hockley has announced that he will be stepping down from the role at the end of the summer. The chairman and the directors had earlier informed him that they did not view him as a long-term CEO but offered the option to exit on his terms.
Hockley will be in charge of the upcoming Australian summer which features a white-ball series against Pakistan, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, the Men's and Women's Big Bash League (BBL), and the Women's Ashes. He will also oversee Australia's 2025 Champions Trophy and is expected to officially step down by March 2025.
James Allsopp, recently promoted as chief of cricket within the Cricket Australia framework, is being touted as the successor to Hockley, according to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald. The same report mentions Todd Greenberg, the Australian Cricketers Association chief, as another potential candidate for the soon-to-be vacant position.
“This was a difficult decision. 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," Hockley said.
“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,” he added.
Hockley had worked within the Australian cricketing framework for 13 years before being appointed the CEO.
Hockley's reign as CEO included some controversial moments
Despite Australia racking in the silverware across formats in Hockley's reign, his hands were full with several off-field issues. He was initially appointed on an interim basis after his predecessor Kevin Roberts was criticised for not handling the pandemic.
Hockley steered the CA in the right direction during the time of crisis and was eventually appointed on a full-time basis. The exits of Tim Paine and Justin Langer as captain and coach, respectively, were one of the major challenges that Hockley faced during his tenure.
Furthermore, he also had key decisions to make during Warner's captaincy saga and CA's tussle with the broadcasters.