Rob Lynch, the interim chief executive of the Professional Cricketers' Association, has been appointed to the role on a permanent basis, following the abrupt departure of his predecessor, Tony Irish, earlier in the year.

Lynch, 38, has previously served as chief operating officer at Middlesex, and represented New Zealand at the Under-19 World Cup in 2000 during a brief playing career with Auckland, before retiring to become a coach, administrator and a registered agent.

"It is a great honour to have been chosen as the next Chief Executive of the PCA," said Lynch. "Cricket may face significant challenges ahead with the Covid-19 crisis but this provides us with a wonderful opportunity to take a creative approach with key stakeholders, re-purposing the organisation and ensuring the health of our sport and members.

"I inherit a very strong team and I would like to pay tribute to their consistent commitment since I joined. I would also like to thank the PCA Board, player reps and staff for their continued support as we drive the organisation forward together."

Daryl Mitchell, the PCA chairman, added: "It is great credit to Rob that he has made such a compelling case for his appointment as our CEO. In the most trying circumstances one could imagine, Rob has shown great leadership and provided much needed stability within the organisation.

"His energetic, innovative approach and the respect he has built up with our members and key stakeholders make him the ideal candidate to steer the PCA through the uncertain times ahead."

Non-executive chairman of the PCA, Julian Metherell added: "Rob has provided outstanding leadership to all aspects of the PCA's work over the last six months in his role as interim CEO. He brings an in-depth knowledge of the game and strong commercial skills to the role. The PCA Board looks forward to working with him."