Richard Sykes is poised to resign as chair of Middlesex, marking the latest leadership change at the county club. Sykes has informed the board of his decision to quit after three years in the role, with members expected to be notified later this week. This follows persistent calls for his departure from former players, notably ex-Middlesex and England captain Mike Gatting.
Sykes' impending exit comes after the dismissal of chief executive Andrew Cornish in June. Cornish was let go after the club received a complaint regarding his alleged behaviour from a staff member, which he denies. The England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) cricket disciplinary committee is understood to have upheld misconduct charges against Cornish, though he has launched an appeal.
Julie Harrington, who has served as interim chief executive since Cornish's dismissal in July, has accepted Sykes' resignation and will lead the search for his replacement. Sykes' departure is not linked to the allegations against Cornish but follows ongoing criticism from members and former players concerning his leadership. A group of Middlesex veterans, including Gatting, had written an open letter in April condemning the club's structure and lack of accountability.
Middlesex has faced a challenging season on the field, failing to secure promotion from Division Two of the County Championship for the third consecutive year. However, the club has reached the One-Day Cup final and could win their first trophy in a decade against Leicestershire on Sunday.