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George Bailey has been appointed Australia's new chief cricket selector after Trevor Hohns retired from the role.
George Bailey will take over as Australia's new chief cricket selector after Trevor Hohns confirmed his retirement after a combined 16 years in the role.
Hohns' decision to walk away marks the end of one of the longest involvements in Australian cricket, after he first became a selector in 1994.
He then took over as chairman from 1996 for 10 seasons, before returning in 2016 following the disastrous Hobart Test against South Africa.
Bailey will take over the top role with immediate effect, just 19 months after his own retirement from cricket when he was appointed a selector in 2019-20.
"George is a highly respected leader who is now well established on the NSP alongside Justin (Langer) as the head coach," high performance manager Ben Oliver said.
"He has brought recent playing experience with a deep understanding of the game, an open and collaborative style and a desire to keep improving the selection function.
"The third panel member will add to their combined experience as we look for someone who will bring complementary skills along with their own perspective and diversity of thinking."
A white-ball captain himself, Bailey's first task will be to solve Australia's selection headaches ahead of this year's T20 World Cup.
A home T20 also awaits next year, with Australia still yet to claim their first trophy in the format.
Australia also have a home Ashes this summer, as well as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India next September.
"Firstly, I would like to thank Trevor for his incredible work which has helped shape the success of Australian cricket over a long period, including during my days as a player and captain," Bailey said.
"In what can be a challenging job Trevor has always been calm, consistent and approachable.
"Similarly to his journey, he has made my transition from player to selector as smooth as possible.
"There is a lot I will take from Trevor's style and very much look forward to the journey ahead."
Hohns' retirement comes after Australia won five Ashes series and also retained the urn with a draw in England during his two stints in charge.
The Aussies also claimed two one-day World Cups during his first stint.
His absence now leaves Cricket Australia searching for a selector to replace him on the panel alongside Bailey and coach Langer.
