Ten candidates are still in the running to succeed Warren Deutrom as chief executive of Cricket Ireland but with no-one likely to be in post before the end of the year, Ross McCollum has been appointed as the Interim CEO.

McCollum, who did not apply for the permanent role, is a former chairman of the board and for six years was Ireland’s representative on the ICC so he moves into the role with vast experience and can hit the ground running.

Announcing McCollum’s appointment, which was ratified at Wednesday’s Board meeting, chairman Brian McNeice said: “It is crucial that the organisation has a focal point for direction, decision-making and leadership. Having considered several options, and after a thorough process, the board decided to appoint former Chair Ross McCollum as interim CEO in the short term.

“Cricket Ireland is involved in a number of substantial projects that have the potential to transform our sport for years to come, and to have someone of Ross’ calibre to support us during this interim period is welcome news.

“Ross is not a candidate for the permanent role – he will begin next week and has agreed to remain in the role until a permanent CEO is appointed.”

McNeice also confirmed there were “literally hundreds of candidates” who applied before the closing date of August 20 but they have been whittled down to 10 for the first round of interviews which is already under way.

The process is set to take three-four weeks but no final decision can be taken until October 22, the date of the next board meeting. The 10 remaining candidates, both male and female, from a cricket background and non-cricket  backgrounds, are from near and far.

The new CEO will be based in Ireland and, indeed, one of the original candidates invited for interview  had to turn it down because he refused to move his family here.

Depending on who is confirmed in the post, and his/her circumstances, it could be early next year before they can start but with McCollum starting his paid interim role next week, it seems a pair of safe hands will fill the gap.