Coverdale to move on to new challenge

Stephen Coverdale, Northamptonshire's chief executive, is to resign his position and leave the club before the start of next season.

Coverdale has held the post since succeeding Ken Turner in 1985, making him the longest-serving chief executive in England. He will also stand down as a director of the England & Wales Cricket Board, and as a member of the ECB's management board.

"I have reached a stage in my career when, even though I remain as fully committed as ever, I genuinely do need a new challenge," he said. "Cricket remains my passion but I am considering suitable opportunities both inside and outside the sport."