Botham, who was appointed in 2017, having played for Durham in the club’s first seasons as a first-class county in 1992 and 1993, he spoke last year on the report into cricket’s racism crisis by the Independent Commission for Equality in Cricket. Attracted controversy for his sharp response. (ICEC), which he described as “nonsense” and claimed he “threw on the floor”.
In response, ICEC chair Cindy Butts told MPs at a culture, media and sport select committee hearing in February that the ECB lacked the “moral backbone” for failing to distance itself from Botham’s comments, she said. That Botham himself was asked to give evidence. Inquired, but no answer was given.
Speaking after the end of Botham’s Durham tenure was confirmed, ECB Chairman Richard Thompson said: “Over more than 50 years, Lord Botham has made an enormous contribution to English cricket and Durham in particular, taking over as chairman in 2017. “It’s a very challenging time for the club as a player.”
Collins, who became vice-chairman and director of Durham in 2017, enters the role with a lifelong passion for cricket, as well as over 35 years of commercial and marketing experience across a variety of industries.
He took over with Durham reinstated in the top flight of the County Championship, having been relegated back in 2016 as punishment for the financial crisis, which led to the ECB pulling them out.
Botham took over as chairman shortly afterwards and said in a club press release: “I am delighted with what has been achieved at the club on and off the field during my tenure.
“Our men’s team has performed brilliantly in recent times and this was evident in our promotion to Division One and our performances in the top flight last year.
“Our successful Tier 1 bid is huge for the region and we are extremely pleased to bring the professional women’s game to the region.
“This is a great endorsement of the track and field ability we already have at Durham and our team and coaching staff are coming together very well.
“I look forward to working with Phil to achieve his goals and build on his successes, as I wish him all the best as our new Club President.”
Collins said: “I am delighted to take up the role of Chairman at a very exciting time for Durham cricket. Lord Iain and the Board have laid a strong foundation over many years and I look forward to building on that work.” has been achieved.
“The response to my election has been fantastic and everyone has been very supportive. “I can’t wait for the season to start and for our men’s and women’s teams to compete on the field, while we work on some exciting projects off it . Very.”
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