ICC CEO Geoff Allardice resigns weeks before Champions Trophy 2025

Geoff Allardice, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the International Cricket Council (ICC), has stepped down from his position just weeks before the Champions Trophy 2025. The ICC confirmed his resignation in an official statement but did not specify the exact reasons for his departure.  

Allardice, who joined the ICC in 2012 as General Manager of Cricket, became CEO in November 2021 after serving as acting CEO for eight months. In his statement, he expressed pride in his contributions to the game.  

"It has been a privilege to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the International Cricket Council, and I am incredibly proud of the results we have achieved, from enhancing the global reach of cricket to the commercial foundation put in place for ICC Members," Allardice said.  

However, sources suggest that one of the reasons for his exit is his failure to provide a clear update on Pakistan’s preparations for hosting the Champions Trophy. An ICC board member revealed that concerns about the tournament venues in Karachi and Rawalpindi, which are still under construction, played a role in the decision.  

"The ICC T20 World Cup in the US was a big flop in terms of playing conditions and also exceeded its budget, and the auditing is still being done," the board member told PTI on condition of anonymity. "What broke the camel's back was the Champions Trophy, where as CEO, he was supposed to give a clear picture about Pakistan's readiness to host a tournament of such magnitude."  

Meanwhile, ICC Chair Jay Shah thanked Allardice for his service, acknowledging his role in growing the sport.  

"On behalf of the ICC Board, I want to sincerely thank Geoff for his leadership and commitment during his tenure as Chief Executive. His efforts have played a key role in advancing cricket globally," Shah said.  

The ICC Board will now start looking for a new CEO. Allardice's departure adds to the recent wave of resignations from the ICC, following the exits of Chris Tetley (head of events), Alex Marshall (head of Anti-Corruption Unit), and Claire Furlong (head of marketing and media).