Bradshaw named South Australia chief

Keith Bradshaw, the former MCC chief executive, has taken up the top job with South Australia following his decision to stand down from his role at Lord's which he held for five years.

Bradshaw announced his departure from MCC in August citing family reasons but said he was keen to stay involved with the game and starts his new job in January. He will fill the chief executive role vacated by John Harnden's move to oversee the 2015 World Cup which will be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

"I'm delighted to be appointed to the role of chief executive with the South Australia Cricket Association," Bradshaw said. "It's an exciting time for cricket in South Australia and I'm looking forward to being involved with SACA as it moves forward.

"I've had a wonderful five years at MCC and I'm sad to be leaving Lord's. But I'm thrilled to be moving into a new job where I'm still involved with the administration and running of cricket, which is where my passion lies."

SACA President, Ian McLachlan, said he was delighted to attract someone of Bradshaw's calibre to the state: "It is our great fortune that family matters are bringing Keith back to Australia. Keith oversaw a period of great innovation at Lord's. He was renowned for being a breath of fresh air and making Lord's a welcoming place to all who love the game."

McLachlan added that the work done by Harnden will continue to benefit South Australia cricket. "John's professionalism, vast experience and unfailing personal commitment have been invaluable in creating a stronger future for cricket and a vibrant South Australia," he said. "Generations of South Australians will benefit from John's expertise and hard work. He leaves us all a great legacy.

It has been a significant period of change at South Australia with Tim Nielsen, the former Australia coach, returning to his home state to head up the emerging players' programme.