Glamorgan’s chief executive and director of cricket Hugh Morris shared stories from his time as chief executive on the England and Wales Cricket Board, as well as his vision for the future of business and cricket, when he was guest speaker at the M4 Business Network.

Addressing more than 170 business people at the Celtic Manor Resort, Morris spoke of cricket’s contributions to the Welsh economy.

Citing the £24m income from the first Ashes test at the SSE SWALEC last year, he outlined Glamorgan Cricket Club’s vision to optimise resources and create a financial platform for prosperity in Wales.

Glamorgan Cricket Club closed the 2015 financial year with an operating profit in excess of £590,000. In addition to sporting revenue, the success of appearances from the Kaiser Chiefs and Simply Red will see the stadium host additional concerts this year.

Morris also asserted his aspiration for cricket once again thrive at the heart of Welsh communities, and that Glamorgan Cricket Club is working to produce a team that persuades people to play, attend, and follow the sport. He noted the success of cricket grounds in London and Manchester, but distinguishes the SSE SWALEC by its provision of 'cricket’s warmest welcome'.

The former England and Glamorgan captain said: “Today, too many players from Welsh cricket teams go unrecognised when walking through Cardiff or Newport city centres, that needs to change. We are creating a winning team with top international players, and are working to ensure the SSE SWALEC becomes an entertainment centre to be proud of.”

Sharing stories from his time on the English Cricket Board, Morris described times around the resignation of Kevin Pietersen as 'challenging', but largely focused on its effect on forcing a turning point in international cricket.

He lauded players such as Andrew Strauss and Andy Flower, labelling them role models.

He said: “When you have a crisis, having the right people in the right positions becomes fundamentally important.”

England went on to win the Ashes in 2009, a year later 'it wasn’t about winning a cricket match; it was about inspiring a nation'.

The M4 Business Network’s 2017 event calendar will see events take place at the Celtic Manor Resort on March 14, May 9, September 12 and November 14 and speakers will be revealed in the New Year.

The network has established itself as one of the premier networking organisation in South Wales, attracting members from along the M4 corridor. Current sponsors include UHY Hacker Young Chartered Accountants, the South Wales Argus, University of South Wales, The Celtic Manor, Newport City Council, South Wales Chamber of Commerce, Quality Solicitors Rubin Lewis O’Brien and Johnsey Estates.

For more information about the M4 Business Network or to join call 01633 213318 or visit www.m4businessnetwork.org.