Former AFLPA boss rejoins cricket amid global scheduling crisis and CBA horizon
In a powerful return to the center of the cricketing world, Paul Marsh has been appointed the new CEO of the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA), taking charge at a critical juncture for both Australian and international cricket.
Marsh previously served as ACA CEO for a decade before spending the last 11 years leading the AFL Players Association. Now, he returns with a deep well of experience—and a stark warning about the fragile state of the international game.
“I am extremely excited to be coming back to work at the ACA at a time when there are so many challenges and opportunities in cricket and for an organisation I have so much passion and respect for,” Marsh said.
International cricket ‘in trouble’ without scheduling overhaul
Marsh was clear about the most urgent issue he will tackle: global scheduling. As domestic T20 leagues grow in size and influence, traditional international fixtures are increasingly squeezed.
“If we don’t get the scheduling sorted out in international cricket so we actually work out how international cricket will co-exist with the domestic Twenty20 competitions, then international cricket’s in trouble,” Marsh warned.
He called for global coordination to establish protected windows for international cricket and T20 leagues, noting that structural reform will require consensus across cricket boards worldwide.
“So we are trying to get to windows. We are trying to get to a more structured format around how international cricket works. That’s one of the big priorities coming in,” he said. “The cricket scheduling problem is not an easy one… you’ve got to get the countries to come.”
ACA eyes long-term stability and future CBA
Marsh’s timing also positions him to influence the next collective bargaining agreement (CBA), with negotiations expected in the coming years. He emphasized the importance of entering those talks early to shape outcomes that support players and the game.
“It’s a good time, we’re a couple of years out from the next CBA. If I had to wait any longer, I think it’s difficult for the next person coming in.”
“Cricket’s in my blood,” he added. “I look forward to reconnecting with many in the cricket community but also building new relationships with our members and other stakeholders to grow the game and the opportunities for all ACA members.”
ACA, CA express strong support for Marsh’s leadership
Greg Dyer, Chair of the ACA, hailed Marsh’s return as both strategic and timely.
“Paul has an unmatched depth of experience and expertise… We feel very fortunate to have attracted him back to cricket as we navigate significant change in the global landscape.”
“The ACA is a leading player association providing player advocacy, promoting inclusiveness, post-career support, commercial innovation and telling the great stories of our members. We know we will be well served by Paul.”
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg, himself a former ACA chief executive, also welcomed the appointment:
“Paul brings a wealth of cricket experience to the role and a passion for the game and the welfare of our players. A collaborative and productive relationship between CA and the ACA is important… and I’m sure this will continue well into the future.”
Reshaping the game at a global crossroads
Marsh’s appointment comes at a moment of profound change in world cricket. The rise of franchise leagues, a congested international calendar, and upcoming CBA negotiations will all shape the future of Australia’s professional players—and possibly the game’s global direction.
With deep cricketing roots and a player-first ethos, Marsh returns to lead the ACA through a period of transformation. Whether he can help reshape international cricket before its foundations weaken further may prove to be his defining challenge.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
