Cricket Australia chairman David Peever resigns after growing criticism

Cricket Australia chairman David Peever has stepped down from his post after encountering criticism from all quarters. The chairman submitted his resignation after mounting pressure from the findings of the Longstaff review. Earlier this week, the review results were made public, and it led to severe backlash. Deputy chairman Earl Hiddings will assume the position of David Peever on an interim basis.

After the embarrassing cheating scandal that took place in the Cape Town Test between Australia and South Africa, many of the senior position holders in Australian cricket had to vacate their seats. Captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner, head coach Darren Lehmann, CEO James Sutherland were the noted casualties. Cricket Australia chairman Peever remained unharmed. 

“I accept responsibility for what happened in South Africa, but I am also very confident we are well positioned to move forward from here,” Peever commented after the release of the cultural review. The chairman had openly expressed his desire to continue in his position and move on from the ball-tampering scandal. However, with the waning support and amidst the outcry for his resignation, Peever eventually resigned in a special meeting of the board.

Australia’s Ethics Centre, an independent body, in its investigation of the Sandpaper gate, branded Cricket Australia “arrogant” and “controlling.” The review accused the board of fostering a culture within Cricket Australia, therefore, promoting the ‘win-at-all-costs’ attitude. The comments lead to the clamor of sacking Peever. 

“We thank David for his service,” the interim-chairman Eddings said.”He has played a pivotal role in the elevation of women‘s cricket, and the significant growth in attendance and participation. He should also be acknowledged for his efforts in improving funding to the ICC full member nations outside Australia, England, India; overhauling governance of the ICC and reforming the Future Tours program, among a long list of achievements.

“We look forward to continuing the important process of recovering and rebuilding for Cricket Australia and Australian Cricket. The Board is keenly aware that we have a way to go to earn back the trust of the cricket community. We and the executive team are determined to make cricket stronger.“