WARWICKSHIRE bowler Olly Hannon-Dalby has been elected as the new chair of the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA).
His appointment to the post will be ratified at the PCA’s Annual General Meeting next month.
The PCA Players’ Committee elected Hannon-Dalby following a thorough independent process.
He becomes the 16th chair of the association. Hannon-Dalby has more than 10 years experience as a PCA representative.
The 35-year-old replaces James Harris who will step down following the completion of his second two-year term at the AGM.
Hannon-Dalby said: “I’m extremely proud to become chair of this great association.
“I want to thank everyone that voted. It’s an exciting time to be a professional cricketer so I’m looking forward to being involved in the decision making processes.
“Having sat on the Players’ Committee for over 10 years, I know that as a collective we must strive to protect our county game.
“County cricket has been very kind to me and I think we should all be very proud of our 18 counties.
“However, freedom of movement is a topic of paramount importance amongst the playing group, so is an element we must look to protect.
“The way in which the women’s game has improved in recent years is inspirational and a lot of that is testament to the hard work of the PCA.
“Continuing to support women’s cricket will ensure that the next generation of young girls can strive to live their dreams as professional cricketers, helping to advance the whole game in England and Wales.
“Collaboration with key stakeholders is vital to our success as an Association. It’s especially important to have a healthy and robust relationship with the ECB, we won’t get it all our own way but without the players there is no game, our strength is in our numbers and remaining strong to create a united front.”
PCA chief executive, Daryl Mitchell, said: “We are thrilled Olly has been voted in as the new Chair of the Association by his peers on the Players’ Committee.
“Olly has given so much to the game on and off the field since making his debut 17 years ago. I think the Players’ Committee has elected an influential figure capable of taking the Association forward.
“He is widely respected as a leading voice in the county game and I’m looking forward to working closely with him as we look to enhance cricket in England and Wales.”
