By Zainab Shafiq 
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has been left reeling from the shock resignation of CEO Geoff Allardice, who quit just weeks before the eagerly awaited Champions Trophy. Allardice had taken over in November 2021 as acting CEO, but announced that he would be leaving to “pursue new challenges.”
Although the official statement by ICC was in support of Allardice, an insider report suggested that issues have been piling up under him. The current reports also revealed dissatisfaction over the Allardice-helmed US-based ICC T20 World Cup that the board was later criticized for ‘pathetic playing’ conditions and heavy budgetary excesses.
Has Geoff Allardice stepped down as ICC CEO due to Pakistan’s failure to host Champions Trophy?
The uncertainty surrounding Pakistan’s preparedness to host the Champions Trophy seems to be the tipping point. The venues in Karachi and Rawalpindi are still under construction, and Allardice was said to be expected to present a clear assessment of the host nation’s preparedness. A senior board member, speaking anonymously, said, “He failed to deliver a clear picture about Pakistan’s readiness, which has caused significant concerns.”
Adding to the controversies, security issues forced India to play its Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, further complicating issues of the tournament’s logistics.
Despite the controversies, ICC Chair Jay Shah thanked Allardice and considered his efforts for the expansion of cricket in the world and strengthening the commercial basis of the organization. Shah said, “Geoff’s efforts have been pivotal for cricket’s development, and we are grateful for his service.”
Allardice, who was tasked with restoring normalcy at the ICC, remains the third casualty in the process. Other notable staff members to bid farewell to ICC include Head of Events Chris Tetley and Head of Marketing and Media Claire Furlong.
The ICC board has stated its intention to officially start the process for Allardice’s replacement even as the federation faces more attacks before the Champions Trophy starts on February 19.