Paraag Marathe to step down as USA Cricket Chairman 

Paraag Marathe will resign as the chairman of USA Cricket after supervising a new election for the role of an independent director of the board. Marathe will conclude his 4 year stint at the helm of affairs of USA Cricket within months after CEO Iain Higgins’ relinquishment. 

Marathe, who also serves as the president of the 49rs enterprises and executive vice president of Leeds Football Club, is the first chairman of USA Cricket, the national governing body that was established with the support of the International Cricket Board after the now-defunct USACA was expelled by the International Cricket Board. During his tenure, USA cricket reached greater heights. While there has been enough brouhaha around cricket’s entry into the 2028 LA Olympics, USA Cricket is already prepared to co-host the 2024 T20 World Series. Marathe’s departure may not have bearings at least on the latter, as it is learnt that International Cricket Board CEO, Geoff Allardice who is currently on a visit to the USA, is pleased with the advancements made by the board in the bid to host the all important World Series. 

Marathe’s time at the office was marred by the litigation against him and three other directors of the board by Beni Pisike and Srini Salver, who also currently serve as directors on the board. The plaintiffs questioned the legitimacy of Marathe’s reappointment as Chairman 

and also debated an amendment to the constitution to repudiate a clause that disallowed members to vote before serving at least a year’s time as a member in good standing. Pisike has called the resignation a part of an ‘agreement’ that made them withdraw the lawsuit. 

"Thank you to everyone associated with USA Cricket for their commitment to building a strong foundation for the sport in the United States through collaboration over the last three-plus years," said Marathe.

"I am pleased with the direction that has been set for cricket in this country, especially in light of the many unforeseen challenges we've faced, and the time is right for new leadership to see through the next phase of growth for the sport. My top priority is to ensure a smooth transition that will continue the upward trajectory of the sport. Cricket already features a hugely passionate community of players, fans, and advocates in this country and I will continue to be supportive of the sport moving forward" added Marathe.