Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley to step down at the end of the home summer

The top job in Australian cricket is up for grabs with the Cricket Australia chief executive set to step down.

The hunt is on for a new Cricket Australia chief executive, with Nick Hockley set to step down after the upcoming home summer.

Australian Cricketers Association chief, and former NRL boss, Todd Greenberg looms as a candidate to replace Hockley, along with Big Bash head Alistair Dobson.

Hockley steps away following nearly 13 years working in Australian cricket, including five as CA chief executive, a time that included signing the sport’s first billion-dollar TV deal and enduring the Covid-19 pandemic.

“This was a difficult decision; however, following what promises to be a blockbuster summer and with our five-year strategic plan well progressed, this is the right time to pursue another challenge while giving the board plenty of time to find its next CEO to build on the strong foundations now in place,” he said.

“This is not the time for goodbyes, as I remain completely focused on the season ahead and supporting the board on succession and a smooth transition.”

CA chair Mike Baird said Hockley had “navigated the sport through a period of unprecedented challenge during the pandemic”.

“And he has delivered significant growth and stability. Under Nick’s leadership, several major deals are now in place – many for the next seven years – and the game is set up for continued success,” he said.

Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley will step down at the end of the summer. Picture: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images for Cricket Australia

“As Nick says, his full focus is on delivering another successful summer for our fans, players, broadcasters, partners and the whole of Australian cricket and there will be time to celebrate his legacy and achievements when he steps down from the role next year.

“The timing of Nick’s decision allows the board to ensure a smooth transition and we will begin the process of finding and appointing his successor shortly.”

Hockley is expected to step down towards the end of March 2025 or potentially later depending on the process to appoint his successor.

He was appointed interim Cricket Australia chief executive in June 2020 and then permanent chief executive 11 months later.

Hockley helped usher cricket through the pandemic, with two home summers impacted, and was a key player in a new player MOU that included a 66 per cent uplift in pay for female professional cricketers.

Originally published as Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley to step down at the end of the home summer