PCA appoints Tony Irish to succeed David Leatherdale as chief executive

Irish, the executive chairman of the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations, will take up the post in January 2020

The Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) has appointed Tony Irish to succeed David Leatherdale as chief executive of the players' union in England and Wales.

Irish, who currently holds the role as the executive chairman of the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA), will take up his new post at the PCA in January 2020 after completing his notice period.

Irish also holds the position of chief executive for the South African Cricketers' Association (SACA), but is due to therefore succeed Leatherdale, who informed the PCA Board of his desire to step down from the role in May.

Speaking about his appointment, Irish said: "I'm looking forward to joining the PCA in January and to leading the representation of the professional cricketers, men and women, of England and Wales.

"This is a very exciting period for English cricket and it is critical that the players, who are key stakeholders, maintain a strong voice in the game."

PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell added: "To attract somebody who has the credentials of Tony to the PCA is extremely positive news for all PCA members. I have been involved in the recruitment process to ensure David's successor will continue the momentum he built over his tenure in championing professional cricketers in England and Wales.

"I am really looking forward to working closely with Tony who joins the PCA understanding the importance of players having a strong voice through his role at FICA and the South African Cricketers' Association."

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