Caribbean Premier League chief executive Pete Russell is stepping down from his full-time position after 14 years with the tournament, the CPL announced on September 24 following the conclusion of another season.
Russell, who was part of the CPL’s founding team, will remain chief executive until a successor is appointed. He will then continue working with the CPL Board and executive leadership in a supporting capacity within the wider CPL group.
His departure comes immediately after a landmark season for the regional T20 competition, which saw the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons capture their maiden CPL championship.
During Russell’s tenure, the CPL developed from a newly established Caribbean cricket tournament into an international T20 franchise competition. Over the past year, the league expanded to seven franchise teams and broadened its operations beyond staging matches into sports media and related commercial activities.
The leadership change therefore comes at a significant point in the league’s development, with the organisation now preparing to identify the person who will take responsibility for its next phase.
Russell’s 14-year association with the competition stretches back to its creation and covers the league’s expansion, franchise development and growing international profile.
The CPL did not announce a successor alongside Thursday’s decision. Instead, Russell is expected to remain in the position during the transition period while the organisation identifies and appoints a replacement.
The announcement follows the completion of the latest championship season, in which Antigua & Barbuda secured its first CPL title.
For the Caribbean cricket community, Russell’s departure represents a major change in the leadership of one of the region’s most prominent professional sporting properties.
