Deutrom to step down as Cricket Ireland CEO

Cricket Ireland has confirmed Warren Deutrom will step down as chief executive at the end of August after 19 years in the role.

During the Englishman's time at the helm, Ireland were granted Test status by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2017.

More recently, planning was lodged for a new 4,000-seater cricket stadium in Dublin to be built in time for Ireland co-hosting the 2030 T20 World Cup.

With 30 years experience in cricket administration, Deutrom has previously worked for the ICC and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

"It's hard to explain my feelings since making this decision – the role of Cricket Ireland CEO has covered more than a third of my life and two-thirds of my professional career," said Deutrom.

"It has felt more like a vocation and a true labour of love than a mere job."

Deutrom added that Ireland being awarded Test status is "the most significant achievement I'll look back on with pride".

He added: "While the absolute highlights of the role are too numerous to mention, the most powerful memories I'll take with me are of our Irish cricket family – the good people, the kind people, the mentors, the taskmasters, the wonderful colleagues, and the countless friends I am privileged to have made along the way."

Cricket Ireland chair Brian MacNeice praised Deutrom's "skill, dedication, enthusiasm and selflessness".

"He ends his tenure with not only a list of achievements, but several substantial projects in development – such as the stadium and co-hosting of the T20 World Cup - that suggest a bright future for Irish cricket.

"On behalf of the Board and staff of Cricket Ireland, I thank Warren for his outstanding leadership and commitment to the role of CEO – and I wish Warren and his family all the best in the future."

Cricket Ireland said it will begin a "comprehensive and thorough" recruitment process to select Deutrom's successor.