The ECB has named Richard Thompson as the next Chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Saturday 7th August.
Richard Thompson is currently chair at Surrey County Cricket Club and will move forward to ECB Chair on September 1 he will start his 5 year post.
He will take a post of Martin Darlow who was the previous chair and working since April.
As Chair of Surrey County Cricket Club, Mr Thompson has overseen a successful period for the County on the field, off the field and in the community.
Outside of cricket, Mr Thompson is the founder and chair of M&C Saatchi Merlin as well as Chair of the broader M&C Saatchi UK Group; chairman of Southshore Group (an ITV-owned production company) , an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society and Chair & founder of Sport United Against Dementia (SUAD).
Richard Thompson, said:
“I am immensely proud to become Chair of the ECB at what is a hugely important time for cricket
“Cricket has given me the chance to meet an incredibly diverse range of amazing people. Their passion, endeavour and love for the game is what I want to harness, to take our game forward, to new heights across England & Wales.
“Cricket should be the most inclusive sport in the country, welcoming people from all backgrounds, helping bring communities together. For those communities where we have fallen short, I will work tirelessly to restore their trust in the game.
With the Men’s & Women’s Ashes on the horizon, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in October and the recent successes in our red ball game, along with hosting the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026 there is much ahead of us.
I am looking forward to using my experience. And also love for the game in taking this opportunity to give cricket a fresh start. Alongside the Board and senior leaders at the ECB, we will work with the counties and the recreational game. Collaboration and partnership will be the key to our sport’s future.”
Brenda Trenowden, CBE, commented:
“We are delighted to announce Richard’s arrival to the ECB as Chair. His blend of exceptional commercial and cricket administration experience supports our aims to grow. And diversify the game whilst guiding the game as we also face challenging financial headwinds.
“I’d also like to say many thanks, on behalf of the ECB, to Martin Darlow. For his excellent stewardship in recent months. Cricket has faced many challenges in 2022 and Martin has helped steer the ship until Richard’s arrival. Also I’m pleased that he’ll continue to provide his invaluable wisdom. And insight through his role as Deputy Chair of the Board.”
