Nick Hockley has announced his decision to resign as Cricket Australia’s chief executive in March 2025, concluding a five-year tenure.
Having served in various roles within Australian cricket for 13 years, Hockley initially assumed the CEO position on an interim basis during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic after Kevin Roberts resigned amid criticism of CA's initial crisis management, which included significant staff layoffs.
Hockley was appointed permanently in May 2021, having successfully navigated the sport through the 2020-21 season despite border closures, including the financially crucial Test series against India.
Hockley explained that the decision was difficult but felt it was the right time to pursue new challenges. He noted that the Board now has ample time to find a successor who can build on the solid foundations established during his tenure. He stated that he remains focused on the upcoming season and supporting the Board in ensuring a smooth transition.
During his final season, CA will host India for a five-Test series and the Women’s Ashes in January.
Among the significant challenges Hockley faced were pandemic-related issues and a dispute with broadcaster Channel Seven, which initially sought a discount but later remained a long-term partner under a new seven-year deal signed in 2023 with Foxtel, although it did not significantly increase in value.
Hockley also successfully negotiated a smoother Memorandum of Understanding compared to 2017, which included substantial pay increases for women’s cricket.
His tenure included managing the controversial departure of Tim Paine as Test captain just before the 2021-22 Ashes, smoothly transitioning to Pat Cummins, and handling an unpleasant split with head coach Justin Langer.
Hockley’s attempt to overturn David Warner's lifetime leadership ban failed in late 2022 when Warner withdrew his case amid pressure from an independent panel.
Hockley's leadership coincided with notable on-field successes, including T20 and ODI World Cup victories for both the men’s and women’s teams, the men’s team winning the World Test Championship, and the women securing gold at the Commonwealth Games. Additionally, in 2022, the men’s team toured Pakistan for the first time since 1998.
He also spearheaded CA’s Multicultural Action Plan, aiming to boost participation and attendance among South Asian communities.
CA will conduct a global search for Hockley’s successor, with Todd Greenberg, CEO of the Australia Cricketers' Association, considered a likely frontrunner if he expresses interest.