The Western Australian Cricket Association today announced its Chief Executive, Mike Allenby, will step down from the role with immediate effect.

Allenby, who was appointed for a three-year term in 1998, will leave the WACA to pursue other business interests. Allenby took on the role at a time when the Association was facing a number of issues.

He has been responsible for a number of significant changes during his term, including the restructuring of the events and cricket departments as well as an overhaul of the Association's commercial activities. Allenby also played a pivotal role in the determination of the WACA redevelopment plan that is currently before the State Government for funding consideration.

Some of Mike's initiatives and achievements include:

• Implementation of the WACA's strategic plan;
• Taking first class cricket to regional Western Australia;
• The portable wicket innovation;
• Initiated the Global Challenge Tournament.

WACA Finance and Administration Manager Rod Lillis has been appointed to cover the vacancy pending identification of a permanent replacement.

"This is a crucial appointment for the WACA and the Executive (the WACA Board) will work hard to find the right person for what is now a very different job to that Mike was recruited for." said WACA Chairman Charles Fear.

"I have essentially completed the "change agent" role I was appointed to do" said Mike Allenby, "and it's fair to say that the Executive and I have different views as to the way forward so I have decided pursue other interests"

"We would like to thank Mike for his work at the WACA and for his contribution over the past three years." said Mr Fear "We wish him well in his future endeavours."

© 2001 Western Australian Cricket Association

This report does not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Cricket Board.