James Allsopp to take over as EGM of Community Cricket at Cricket Australia

Cricket Australia has appointed James Allsopp, the Cricket ACT Chief Executive Officer, as the Executive General Manager of Community Cricket. Allsopp will be taking up the role from March 2021 following the departure of former Australia captain Belinda Clark, who had stepped down earlier in November.



Speaking about the appointment of Cricket Australia Interim CEO, Nick Hockley said that they are thrilled to welcome Allsopp in the new role. He added that Allsopp leaves Cricket ACT in a strong position, which is evident from their growth in commercial partners, the organisation of WBBL tournaments and international cricket.



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“The significant investment into Cricket ACT pathways will ensure they continue to be a talent nursery for Australian Cricket as well as the sustainable investment in infrastructure to support the growth of cricket within the ACT and surrounding region," he said.



Acknowledging the work done by Stuart Wiley, who is currently the acting EGM, Hockley said that he has played an outstanding role in the absence of Clark and would continue the same until Allsopp takes up in March.



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As the CEO of Cricket ACT, James has had a significant role in the Community Cricket, development of Cricket ACT’s Junior Growth Strategy, which has increased the junior registered teams by 12 per cent.



The junior girls registered teams in 2020-21 are reported to have increased by 85 per cent, with Allsopp urging the community cricket’s female development plan after the success of the 2020 T20 World Cup. Earlier, James had played cricket for thirteen years at Bankstown before taking up to coaching, especially at the ACT Meteors. He has also worked in the education system for five years as the Head of PDHPE and Deputy Principal.