Richardson to step down as ICC chief executive next year
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) The ICC chief executive David Richardson will step down after the Cricket World Cup in England next year.
Richardson joined the ICC as general manager, cricket in 2002 and was promoted to chief executive in 2012.
To Richardson, a former South Africa test wicketkeeper, retiring after the World Cup was the right time.
During his tenure, the ICC's commercial returns have risen, and Ireland and Afghanistan have been promoted to full members.
''I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the ICC and I am particularly pleased with what we have achieved in recent times in creating greater context for all formats of the game and securing increased opportunities and clear pathways for all members to play at the highest level,'' Richardson said in a statement on Tuesday.
''I will certainly do all I can over the next 12 months to ensure that we complete our work on the new global strategy for cricket aimed at growing the game both in our traditional and new markets, and, in particular put on a World Cup that does the game proud.''
Richardson saw controversial powers given to the ''Big Three'' of India, Australia, and England in the ICC constitution in 2014 until they were rolled back by new ICC chairman Shashank Manohar.
Manohar said a search for Richardson's replacement will begin immediately.
