Crocker's seven-year reign in Auckland to end next month

Auckland Cricket's chief executive Lindsay Crocker announced his resignation today after seven years in the position. Crocker, a former first-class cricketer who played 54 matches for Northern Districts, said he felt it was time to move on.

"I am happy to leave Auckland Cricket in such good heart and with excellent staff, " he said. "We have the potential to dominate both men's and women's cricket for some time yet, and we have good established coaching systems that will ensure continued enjoyment of the game at all levels.

"I am particularly proud of the 'club is the hub' management assistance we are offering our clubs; a system which we believe is unique in this country and should provide the basis for sustainable club cricket strength.

"Perhaps the most satisfying challenge was providing the initial impetus for portable pitch development and seeing the system introduced and used for cricket internationals at Eden Park."

Rex Smith, the chairman of the Auckland Cricket Association, said the Board would be sorry to see Crocker depart. "He has been CEO during a period of significant change, including wholesale governance changes from the delegate-based board to a corporate-style directorate, changes in playing structures, new coaching and development programmes and successful stewardship into the professional playing environment. The income base has grown significantly and the ACA is in sound financial shape, with good solid future plans."

Crocker's employment will end on July 25, and he will pursue other interests. Smith said the Board will advertise for a replacement shortly.