ECB forced to make ‘unthinkable’ job cuts

THE England and Wales Cricket Board is to make a sweeping round of redundancies as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, with chief executive Tom Harrison describing the measures as ‘unthinkable’.

The game’s governing body believes the health crisis has already cost the wider game £100million, and estimates that figure could more than double if restrictions continue having an effect next season. As a result, the ECB board has approved a 20 per cent reduction in its workforce budget.

In a statement, Harrison (right) said: ‘It is now an irrefutable fact that the impact of this pandemic is significant and will be long-lasting.

‘There is also deep uncertainty about the future, and it is vital we take more steps now to ensure the future financial sustainability of cricket in England and Wales. Given this new reality, if we are to safeguard cricket’s long-term future and still deliver on the growth ambitions of our Inspiring Generations strategy, it is clear the ECB will need to become a leaner and more agile organisation.

‘Seven months ago, sharing a message of this nature was unthinkable. The position we had created to come together as a game and grow cricket on the back of a remarkable year in 2019 was truly game-changing.

‘Our ambition and energy are unchanged, but how we get there now needs to look significantly different to what we originally planned for.

‘I am extremely proud of the work everyone has done. In the most trying of circumstances we’ve come together to deliver a compelling summer of cricket at all levels. When the pressure has been on, our sport’s come together and shown cricket in its best light.’