FICA creates new leadership structure, Paul Marsh named Executive Chairman

The Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA) on Thursday unveiled a new leadership structure after the resignation of its long-serving CEO Tim May by making Paul Marsh the Executive Chairman of the body.

FICA President Jimmy Adams said Marsh was elected as Executive Chairman by Chief Executives of the individual player associations, with Ian Smith as Chief Operating Officer.

"Mr. Marsh is the current Chief Executive of the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA), and will continue to operate in this capacity alongside his new role, which will involve him being accountable for FICA's performance and being the organisation's main spokesperson," FICA said in a statement.

Smith has been the Legal Director of the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA) since 2004 and has assisted May at FICA for the last few years. He will be responsible for the day to day operational management of FICA.

Adams said the new appointments signalled a new chapter in FICA's history.

"The contribution of Tim May to FICA and cricketers worldwide has been enormous and in many respects he is irreplaceable," he said.

"Our game continues to throw up issues of great complexity, and strong player representation through FICA and the individual player associations has never been more important. FICA is committed to continuing Tim's wonderful legacy by ensuring that the voices of the players always be heard," he added.

May quit yesterday after being the face of FICA for eight years, lashing out at the sport's administrators and their alleged "threats, intimidation and backroom deals".

May was last month ousted from an ICC players' committee amid allegations of pressure from India. The Australian said he was tired of battling the governing body.

Adams hoped the new office-bearers would match May's dedication.

"The FICA Board is excited by the appointments of both Paul Marsh and Ian Smith. Paul has been at the forefront of player advocacy for 12 years at the ACA, the past eight as CEO. He has proven to be a strong, respected and passionate leader who has also contributed enormously as a member of the FICA Board," he said.

"Ian has demonstrated his dedication, expertise and passion throughout his time with the PCA and FICA and along with Paul, will ensure our member associations and their players continue to be represented in a strong, unified and tireless manner," he added.

FICA Structure:

President - Jimmy Adams

Executive Chairman - Paul Marsh

Chief Operating Officer - Ian Smith

FICA Board:

Australian Cricketers' Association - Paul Marsh

Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh - Debrabrata Paul

New Zealand Cricket Players' Association - Heath Mills

Professional Cricketers' Association (UK) - Angus Porter

South African Cricketers' Association - Tony Irish

Sri Lankan Cricketers' Association - Ken De Alwis

West Indies Players' Association - Michael Hall.