Sir Ian Botham has replaced ex-England team-mate Mike Gatting as the new president of the Professional Cricketers' Association.
Sir Ian takes up president post from old pal Gatting
Sir Ian Botham has replaced ex-England team-mate Mike Gatting as the new president of the Professional Cricketers' Association.
The re-shuffle at the PCA has also seen the appointment of Sean Morris - who has taken on the chief executive role from Richard Bevan.
The PCA, the representative body for past and present first-class cricketers, has become an increasingly influential voice on issues affecting the sport in England.
The organisation expressed both their delight at the appointments of Botham and Morris - and their gratitude towards Bevan and in particular Gatting's "unstinting support and wise counsel".
Former Derbyshire batsmen Tim O'Gorman, group chairman of the PCA, said: "We are delighted that Sir Ian Botham has accepted our offer to become president.
Commitment
"He will bring in a welcome fresh perspective and help build further profile for the PCA."
Of Gatting he said: "On behalf of all players over the past few years, I would like to thank Mike for the huge amount of time and undying commitment he has given the organisation.
"Richard Bevan was instrumental in this development and he worked tirelessly to transform the organisation's fortunes.
"While we're very sorry to say goodbye to Richard, the appointment of Sean Morris, an individual of the highest calibre, is excellent news for the PCA."
Morris is relishing the opportunity he has been given.
"I am delighted to be joining such a progressive and successful organisation and to have the opportunity to develop services for the PCA's members and business partners," he said.
