COVID-19 IMPACT: ECB proposes 20% redundancies; fears £200mn deficit

The England and Wales Cricket Board has announced the reduction of its workforce by 20%, resulting in 62 job losses, to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The cricket governing body has said that it has already lost £100m and feared the figure can go up to £200m as further disruption cannot be ruled out.

The staff getting affected by the decision has been informed by the cricket board.

ECB Chief executive Tom Harrison has made the announcement in a long, emotional note, also highlighting the significant and long-lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on cricket in England and Wales and the steps being taken to ensure the future financial sustainability of the game.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has left cricket facing its most significant challenge of the modern era. The game has already lost more than £100m, and the financial impact is likely to be £200m if there is further disruption next year, which many are expecting,” said Harrison after the ECB had “thoroughly reviewed structures and budgets in order to reduce central costs without compromising on ambitions for the game”.

He further added: “Over recent weeks we have thoroughly reviewed the ECB’s structures and budgets in order to reduce central costs without compromising on our ambitions. We have now shared with colleagues our Board-approved proposals, which will generate significant savings. Every part of the ECB is affected by these changes, and these savings will only be possible by reducing our headcount.

“These proposals include a 20% reduction in our workforce budget, which will equate to the removal of 62 roles from our structure – a number which is largely made up of existing headcount and a small number of vacant positions. Additionally, we are also proposing further cost savings by changing a number of current posts into flexible working roles. ECB staff has been informed and a collective consultation will begin imminently.”

“It is now an irrefutable fact, however, that the impact of this pandemic is significant and will be long-lasting. There is also deep uncertainty about the future, and it is vital we take more steps now to ensure the future financial sustainability of cricket in England and Wales.

“Given this new reality, if we are to safeguard cricket’s long-term future and still deliver on the growth ambitions of our inspiring generations strategy, it is clear the ECB will need to become a leaner and more agile organisation.”

The ECB over the next few weeks will be supporting the staff affected by these proposals as the board seeks to safeguard the future of the sport.

Admin Sportz Front

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