Darren Gough steps down as Yorkshire managing director of cricket

Former England bowler Darren Gough has stepped down from his role as managing director of cricket at county club Yorkshire on Thursday (March 14).

Gough, 53, was appointed to the post in December 2021 following a racism scandal that shook the English game, which centred around the treatment of Pakistan-born bowler Azeem Rafiq at the club.

A statement from Yorkshire said Gough took on the role "following a very difficult period for the club and has gone on to shape a young and exciting squad".

Gough said: "It's been an absolute honour to work for my boyhood club over the last two seasons. Having stepped in at a very challenging time, we've worked hard to steady the ship and develop our cricket department to ensure we can return to the top tier of English cricket.

"In my time here, we have achieved a great deal that I am proud of. The men's squad has been totally rebuilt with significant improvements behind the scenes across all support areas. This has put both the men's team and the Northern Diamonds in a much better place to be able to compete going forward.

"The performance pathway is thriving and continues to lead the way nationally, and there is a real energy around what is happening with the Women's game and the next few years will be transformational I'm sure.

"Following conversations with the club, I have decided now is the right time to step away from my role and give someone else an opportunity to take our playing squads forward. I'd like to thank all of our players, staff, members and fans for their considerable support over the last few seasons and wish them all the very best for the coming year.

"I will always be a Yorkshire Cricket supporter and look forward to returning to watch our teams in the coming years."

Yorkshire's chief executive officer Stephen Vaughan said: "It's been an absolute pleasure to work with Darren since taking on this role. The contribution he has made to stabilise the club and drive our playing squads forward has been critical and, I know that, as a Yorkshireman who lives and breathes this club, he has been so proud to carry out the role.

"The work that Darren has done over the last two seasons has built some fantastic foundations and we are very grateful for his time, commitment and the manner in which he has set about his role."

The former right-arm seamer played 58 Tests for England, taking 229 wickets, between 1994 and 2003.