Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley has announced that he will be stepping down at the end of the upcoming summer. This news has sparked a search for a new leader to take the helm of the organization. Hockley has had an impressive tenure in Australian cricket, with nearly 13 years of experience in the sport, including five years as CA chief executive. During his time in the role, he oversaw the signing of the sport’s first billion-dollar TV deal and navigated the challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Hockley’s decision to step down comes at a pivotal time for Cricket Australia, as the organization is in the midst of implementing a five-year strategic plan. He expressed that he believes now is the right time to pursue a new challenge, while also giving the board ample time to find his successor. Despite his impending departure, Hockley remains fully focused on delivering a successful summer season for fans, players, broadcasters, partners, and the entire Australian cricket community.
Australian Cricketers Association chief Todd Greenberg and Big Bash head Alistair Dobson are among the potential candidates to replace Hockley. Both bring a wealth of experience in sports administration and could provide strong leadership for Cricket Australia moving forward. The board will begin the process of finding and appointing a new chief executive in the near future, with Hockley expected to step down towards the end of March 2025.
Under Hockley’s leadership, Cricket Australia has seen significant growth and stability, with major deals secured for the next seven years. His efforts have helped set the game up for continued success, and he has been praised for his role in navigating the sport through the challenges of the pandemic. Hockley was instrumental in negotiating a new player MOU that included a substantial pay increase for female professional cricketers, highlighting his commitment to advancing the sport and supporting its players.
As Hockley prepares to transition out of his role, the cricket community will have the opportunity to celebrate his legacy and achievements. His dedication and leadership have left a lasting impact on Australian cricket, and his successor will have big shoes to fill. The search for a new Cricket Australia chief executive marks the beginning of a new chapter for the organization, as it looks to build on the strong foundations laid by Hockley and continue to grow and evolve in the years to come.