Ed Smith Joins ECB Board as Non-Executive Director

Ed Smith Joins ECB Board as Non-Executive Director

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced the appointment of Ed Smith, the former national selector, to its board as a non-executive director. Smith, who has a rich background in cricket, having played for Middlesex and Kent and earning three Test caps for England, will officially join the ECB on October 1, following the conclusion of his one-year term as President of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).

Smith served as the England men's selector from 2018 to 2021, a period during which the team achieved significant success, including winning the World Cup on home soil in 2019. His experience and insights are expected to be invaluable as he takes on this new role, which the ECB describes as one that will provide scrutiny and challenge to the board, particularly in terms of the long-term strategy and governance of the game, including performance cricket.

This appointment comes at a crucial time for English cricket, especially following the disappointing Ashes tour where the team faced intense criticism for their preparation, attitude, and professionalism after suffering a 4-1 defeat against Australia. Smith will replace Baroness Zahida Manzoor, who has completed her three-year term on the board.

Looking ahead, the ECB is gearing up for an exciting international summer, starting with the women's white-ball series against New Zealand on May 10, followed by the men's first Test against the same opponents on June 4. Smith's insights and governance will be pivotal as the ECB navigates these upcoming challenges and aims to enhance the performance and reputation of English cricket on the global stage.