The ECB have named Richard Thompson as their new chair, 11 months after Ian Watmore left the role by mutual consent in October following England's controversial decision to cancel their tour of Pakistan.
Thompson will leave his current role as Surrey chair to begin a five-year term on September 1 and has immediately pledged to 'restore trust' in both the sport and the ECB and make cricket the "most inclusive sport in the country" following the racism scandal.
"I am immensely proud to become Chair of the ECB at what is a hugely important time for cricket," Thompson said. "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."
Thompson has been touted as the 'choice of the counties' and hinted at his desire to bridge the growing gap between the ECB and the 18 counties. He continued: "I am looking forward to using my experience and 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, who led the selection process, added: "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 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, and I'm pleased that he'll continue to provide his invaluable wisdom and insight through his role as Deputy Chair of the Board."
