Yorkshire County Cricket Club chief exec resigns

Mark Arthur has resigned as chief executive of Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

There had been calls for him to go following intense criticism of the team's handling of racism allegations by former player Azeem Rafiq.

Yorkshire's new chairman, Lord Patel, says fresh leadership is "vital" in driving "urgent" change at the club.

Finance director Paul Hudson has stepped in as acting CEO.

Lord Patel said: “Today (11 November) the Board at Yorkshire County Cricket Club has accepted the resignation of Mark Arthur as CEO. We thank him for his tenure.

“This is an important moment for the Club which is ready to move forward with new leadership, which will be vital in driving the change we urgently need.

“We know there is still much work to be done and more difficult decisions to be made. We need to rebuild the trust of the fans, the cricketing world and the public”.

Mark Arthur said: “I’ve had eight fantastic years at The Yorkshire County Cricket Club, working alongside an outstanding group of people, and together achieving many highlights.

"I would like to thank the Members for their support over this period and wish the Club all the very best in the years to come”.

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