The appointment comes as the PCA is looking to improve its relationship with the ECB following a trial period, which prompted the players’ union to suggest that a sense of “real co-operation” between the two parties is needed in the future. It ended at the end of the year. Mitchell said in a statement that he would seek to build a “closer working relationship” with the ECB and the counties in his new role.
The PCA was particularly disappointed at what it described as a “severe lack of communication and consultation” late last year in two policy areas: the new stance on No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and the division of extra money into the Hundred’s salary pot. The men’s county program has been another long-running pressure point between the two parties.
“I am delighted to have been entrusted by the PCA Players Committee and Board with the responsibility of leading the Association as Chief Executive,” Mitchell said. “Representing players has been an important part of my life since becoming a PCA representative in 2009.
“Growth is key to the future of our members and the PCA and building even stronger relationships with players is vital to the future of our game. Being a cricketer in today’s world offers a wealth of opportunities, challenges and more than ever before “Despite the complexities that lie ahead, our members can collectively and individually navigate that.”
Mitchell will take over from a new chair, with James Harris’ second term set to end in February, while his previous role is now vacant. Harris was part of the interview panel for the Chief Executive appointment process along with PCA Chairman Eoin Morgan, and said Mitchell was an “exceptional candidate from a very strong field”.
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