Yorkshire Cricket Club appoints Darren Gough as new managing director

Yorkshire have announced the appointment of Darren Gough as the county’s new managing Director of Cricket on an interim basis.

The former England paceman’s new job comes at a time of particular turbulence for the county due to their handling of former England cricketer Azeem Rafiq’s allegations of racism and harassment during his time at the club.

Yorkshire have been heavily criticised for their actions which led to the resignation of club chairman Roger Hutton and chief executive Mark Arthur standing down, as well as 16 other members of the coaching and medical staff.

Gough replaces Martyn Moxon, who was one of the people to leave the club last week, and the former fast bowler who once captained the side, noted his desire to help rebuild the club.

Gough said: “Yorkshire County Cricket Club has been part of my life since my earliest days in cricket when I made my debut in 1989, and I spent 15 happy years at the club. Like many, I have followed how the club handled the recent racism allegations with sadness and anger.

“I want to play my part in rebuilding cricket in Yorkshire and I am looking forward to working with the exceptionally talented group of players here.

“I am also aware of my wider responsibility to listen to everyone and ensure that every person who is associated with this club feels welcome, instilling values we want associated with the White Rose: honesty, straight talking, hard work, integrity and excellence.”

Gough had a memorable career playing for Yorkshire at two spells and was famously part of the team which won the County Championship in 2001.

Yorkshire chairman Lord Patel welcomed Gough’s decision to re-join the team, stating that his experience and enthusiasm will help shape the club’s direction.

“We are delighted to welcome Darren back to the club and are very happy that he has taken the job.”

“As a former captain of the club, Darren’s impact on the Yorkshire and England teams was considerable as a player. His infectious enthusiasm and will to win will be so important as we aim to be the best on and off the pitch.

“As we start on this journey with Darren, we want to engage everyone at the club and involve as many people as possible in shaping our direction. We have a considerable job ahead of us, but we are ready to embrace the opportunity together and build a brighter future for Yorkshire County Cricket Club”. He added.

The former England paceman is initially set to take charge of the club at least until the end of the 2022 season.