South African Tony Irish has been appointed chief executive officer of the Professional Cricketers’ Association – the players’ union in England and Wales.

Irish is currently CEO of the South African Cricketers’ Association (Saca) and holds a similar role with the Federation of International Cricketers’ Association (Fica). He will succeed the outgoing David Leatherdale at the PCA.

‘To attract somebody who has the credentials of Tony to the PCA is extremely positive news for all PCA members. I have been involved in the recruitment process to ensure David’s successor will continue the momentum he built over his tenure in championing professional cricketers in England and Wales,’ said PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell.

‘David joined the PCA in 2016 and has done a superb job in guaranteeing PCA members are rewarded better than they ever have been. He has led successful negotiations through the county partnership agreement, which will see career-changing improvements for many, with every single player better off.

‘I am really looking forward to working closely with Tony who joins the PCA understanding the importance of players having a strong voice through his role at FICA and the South Africa Cricketers’ Association.’

Irish has also chaired the Board of My Players and the South African Rugby Players’ Association – and is currently a non-executive vice-president of the World Players Association.

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