In a move that will undoubtedly reshape the future of Australian cricket, Nick Hockley, the esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Cricket Australia, has announced his resignation, effective March 2025. Hockley, who has dedicated over a decade to the sport in various roles, has been instrumental in guiding the organization through a period of unprecedented challenges and successes.
Navigating the Pandemic and Delivering Stability
Hockley’s tenure as CEO began in an interim capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic, following the resignation of Kevin Roberts. His steady leadership and strategic vision were crucial in helping Cricket Australia navigate the crisis, which included a mass stand-down of staff and successfully hosting the Test series against India in the 2020-21 season. This achievement not only ensured the game’s financial survival but also demonstrated Hockley’s ability to make tough decisions and deliver results under immense pressure.
“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,” Hockley said in his resignation statement.
Significant Achievements and Challenges
During his time as CEO, Hockley faced several significant challenges, including a stand-off with broadcaster Channel Seven over discounts and the controversial departure of Tim Paine as Test captain on the eve of the 2021-22 Ashes. Despite these obstacles, he was able to oversee a much smoother MoU agreement compared to 2017, which included large pay increases in the women’s game.
One of Hockley’s most notable achievements was the implementation of Cricket Australia’s Multicultural Action Plan, which aims to improve participation and attendance among South Asian communities. This initiative reflects his commitment to diversity and inclusivity within the sport.
On-Field Success and Landmark Tours
Under Hockley’s leadership, Australian cricket has enjoyed a period of significant on-field success. The men’s and women’s teams have won T20 and ODI World Cups, with the men also claiming last year’s World Test Championship. The women’s team secured gold in the Commonwealth Games. Notably, in 2022, the men’s team toured Pakistan for the first time since 1998, a significant milestone in the sport’s history.
“As CEO, Nick navigated the sport through a period of unprecedented challenge during the pandemic and has delivered significant growth and stability,” CA chair Mike Baird said in a statement. “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.”
Hockley’s resignation announcement comes with ample time for a smooth transition, as he remains focused on delivering another successful summer and supporting the Board on succession planning. CA will conduct a global search for Hockley’s successor, with Todd Greenberg, the current CEO of the Australia Cricketers’ Association, likely to be a frontrunner if he expresses interest in the role.
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