Middlesex Cricket has appointed Julie Harrington, former chief executive of British Cycling and the British Horseracing Authority, as interim CEO—a move that strongly indicates Andrew Cornish will not return to the club. Cornish has been absent since November when a fellow staff member lodged a complaint of alleged misconduct against him, as first reported by The Guardian.
Background of the Allegations
Cornish has been under investigation by the Cricket Regulator, which has interviewed all parties and completed its inquiry but has not yet announced a verdict. At the time he took a leave of absence, Cornish denied all allegations of misconduct but has not commented since. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) lent Middlesex its chief operating officer, Mahdi Choudhury, to assist during the winter, but he returned to his duties in April.
Harrington's Appointment and Role
Harrington's appointment is seen as an acknowledgment that Middlesex requires stronger executive leadership. Club sources suggest she may take the role permanently, depending on the Cricket Regulator's judgment regarding Cornish. Harrington brings extensive experience from high-profile sports organizations, having served as operations director at the Football Association, CEO of British Cycling from 2017 to 2021, and CEO of the British Horseracing Authority until two years ago.
In a statement, Middlesex chair Richard Sykes said: “We are delighted to welcome Julie to Middlesex Cricket as Interim CEO. Her extensive leadership experience across major sports will be valuable as we enter this important new chapter.” Harrington, who starts on 20 July, added: “Middlesex is one of county cricket’s great names, and I am looking forward to bringing my experience from high-performing sporting environments to work with the board, staff, players and members. Together, we will support the club through this period and help ensure it is well placed for the future.”
Club's Ongoing Challenges
Recruiting Harrington is a coup for Middlesex, which has faced numerous financial and disciplinary problems in recent years. The club has been battling to maintain its standing in county cricket, with former players like Mike Gatting leading a revolt against the club's leadership, warning that Middlesex is “drifting towards irrelevance.”
