Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland announced he will step down in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.

Sutherland, who has been chief executive for 17 of his 20-year association with the board, has given 12 months’ notice and will continue in his role until a suitable replacement is found.

“After nearly 20 years at Cricket Australia, the time is right. I feel very comfortable that this is the right time for me and a good time for the game,” he said.

Sutherland’s position came under the scanner in March when former captain Steve Smith, David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft admitted to attempting to alter the condition of the ball in the third Test in South Africa.

The three were banned from state and international cricket following one of the biggest scandals in the sport with coach Darren Lehmann also resigning.
Sutherland, however, didn’t quit then and said on Wednesday the controversy did not have a bearing on his decision.

“It certainly was a big issue at the time. But when you work in an industry and an environment as we do, as chief executive of a major sport, these things come from time to time,” he said.

“It hasn’t had a bearing on my decision.”

The other major recent controversy that had an impact on Sutherland’s image was the protracted pay dispute with players that almost brought Australian cricket to a halt.

Sutherland said he was continuing for a year to allow the board to make a smooth transition.

“I think that having been in the role for 17 years, there are things that I’ve come to know along the way, that it’s only appropriate for me to work closely with my successor.

“But at the same time, I’ll be looking to get out of their way as quickly as possible as well.”

NSW Cricket chairman John Warn stepped down from his position this week and is being seen as a potential replacement, according to AFP.

Cricket Australia chairman David Peever lauded Sutherland for his achievements. “On behalf of the board and management of Cricket Australia we thank James for his wonderful service to the game,” he said.

“James has been instrumental in driving crucial change around the game to make it even stronger for future generations.”