Lorgat’s tenure at CSA at an end
CEO, NATIONAL BOARD PART COMPANY
Vice-president to take the reins as an interim measure.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) and CEO Haroon Lorgat officially decided to part ways yesterday, but insiders say the former International Cricket Council chief executive was fired for not being honest with the board over aspects of the T20 Global League.
Lorgat’s failure to secure a broadcaster and a title sponsor for the lucrative league, which kicks off in just five weeks’ time, is believed to have shocked the board into action and, apart from sacking the CEO, they have also been forced to cut the budget for the T20 Global League.
The 57-year-old Lorgat has been the driving force behind the league, but his insistence on taking control of the development of the potential money-spinner led to the sidelining of CSA’s chief financial officer Naasei Appiah and a bitter feud between the two leading administrators.
There have also been accusations that Lorgat had tried to ensure his family members benefit from the league.
In the statement released by CSA, president Chris Nenzani said it had been a tough decision because Lorgat has been at the forefront of the organisation, largely restoring its image.
“We recognise that Mr Lorgat had made a big contribution to the success of the organisation and together with the board was instrumental in changing the fortunes of CSA when it had endured a troublesome period five years ago. We are all saddened by this turn of events, but at the same time we need to look forward to ensure new leadership at CSA builds on the solid foundation laid by Mr Lorgat,” Nenzani said.
CSA blamed a breakdown in the relationship between the board and Lorgat for his axing.
“We recently tried on a few occasions to remedy the situation, but we have not been successful in finding a satisfactory resolution. The board unanimously felt it was in the best interest of the organisation that we agreed to a mutual separation agreement.”
CSA vice-president Thabang Moroe will take the reins as the acting CEO.