Tom William Harrison, the CEO of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has had an eventful career in the world of cricket. While his playing career may not have brought him much fame, his contributions off the field have made him a prominent figure in the cricketing community.
Born and raised in England, Harrison attended Oundle School before moving on to Manchester University. During his early cricketing years, he represented Derbyshire in five first-class matches and seven List A matches in 1995. Additionally, he played second XI cricket for Northants and Worcestershire. As a left-handed batsman and left-arm medium-pacer, Harrison demonstrated his skills on the field, captaining Teddington in the Middlesex Premier League and representing Middlesex Cricket Board twice in List A games.
However, it was Harrison’s impact away from the pitch that truly set him on a successful path. After his playing career, he joined the ECB as Head of Marketing from 2003 to 2006. This experience allowed him to gain valuable insights into the administrative side of cricket. Following his stint at the ECB, Harrison joined sports agency IMG as Head of Cricket and Senior Vice President, where he managed the company’s media business in the UK and Ireland. He also oversaw global media rights sales for major cricketing bodies such as Cricket Australia, Cricket South Africa, and the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Harrison’s expertise in broadcast rights led to an opportunity to work at ESPN STAR Sports in Singapore for four years. His international experience and strong track record in the cricketing industry caught the attention of the ECB, and in 2015, he was appointed as the CEO at the young age of 43. His appointment came as a surprise to many, as he was chosen over Surrey CEO Richard Gould for the prestigious position.
During his tenure as CEO, Harrison wasted no time in making his mark. He immediately took decisive action by sacking Paul Downton and Peter Moores, the managing director and coach of the England team, respectively. This bold move showcased Harrison’s determination to bring about change and improvement within English cricket. To further his mission, he initiated a comprehensive review of the domestic schedule, despite significant resistance from various stakeholders. This review promised a radical overhaul of the county game with the aim of making it more competitive and appealing to fans.
Despite his administrative responsibilities, Harrison remains connected to the game he loves. He continues to play club cricket, demonstrating his passion for the sport and his dedication to staying connected with the grassroots level of the game.
Tom William Harrison’s journey from a cricketer with limited success to becoming the CEO of the ECB is a testament to his drive and ambition. His strategic approach, innovative thinking, and willingness to bring about change have made a significant impact on the English cricketing landscape. As a prominent figure in the cricketing community, Harrison continues to shape the future of the sport in England and leave a lasting legacy.