Former Australian cricketer Simon Katich has been promoted to football operations manager at AFL club Greater Western Sydney.

The former Test opening batsman last year joined the club as a player development coordinator and match day runner.

He has been given an expanded role working under the Giants’ general manager of football Graeme Allan.

“In just 12 months, Simon has proven to be a great asset for the club and we want to continue to develop his skills and believe this is an ideal role,” Allan said.

The club also announced list manager Stephen Silvagni would step down after the coming AFL draft.