David Richardson, the highly regarded and vastly experienced former South African Test wicket keeper has been appointed by the ICC to become its first General Manager- Cricket.

The new senior management position is a crucial appointment, carrying with it overall responsibility for the ICC's Cricket Operations Department. The role includes all cricket related matters, such as playing conditions for the international game, relationships with captains and players, the ICC Code of Conduct, use of technology and the ICC Future Tours Program.

Another vital area that will come under his jurisdiction is the implementation and management of the ICC's panels of international referees and umpires, due to come into force in April this year.

"This is a position of paramount importance to the ICC. The management of cricketing affairs is a demanding area of responsibility and a crucial one as we seek to build new levels of confidence, respect and trust in the world governing body," commented ICC Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Speed.

"David is held in high esteem throughout the cricketing world. He is one of very few international sportsmen who have managed to combine a highly successful cricket career with a demanding professional life, in his case as a practising lawyer," he added.

Commenting on his decision to join the ICC David said: "This is a huge personal and professional challenge and one that provides me with an opportunity to contribute to the development of the game that has been an integral part of my life. These are very exciting times at the ICC and I am proud to be part of the new team that will take the game forward over the next few years."

David will relocate with his wife and three sons from Cape Town to live and work in London. He will be based at the ICC office at Lord's.

David Richardson was a cornerstone of the South African team readmitted to international cricket in 1991/92. He made his Test debut against the West Indies and went on to play 42 matches as wicketkeeper (152 dismissals). His status as a senior and respected member of the team was recognised with the vice captaincy of his country. As an effective middle order batsman he scored more than 1,300 runs, capped by a century against New Zealand and featuring eight half centuries. He also played 122 One Day Internationals, with165 dismissals and almost 900 runs.

Since retiring from international cricket after the South African tour to Australia in 1997/98 David has maintained close contact with the game as both a Business Director with Octagon SA, the company responsible for negotiating player employment contracts with the United Cricket Board of South Africa, and as a media commentator.

Media contact:

Mark Harrison
ICC Communications Manager
Tel: + 44 (0) 207 266 7913/1818
Email: mark.harrison@icc-cricket.com

© ICC