Australian cricket legend David Boon has been appointed as the interim chair of Cricket Australia (CA), following the shock resignation of Mike Baird. The leadership change comes amidst a period of intense internal friction within the governing body, sparked by a controversial push to privatise the Big Bash League (BBL).
Boon, an icon of the game who amassed over 13,000 international runs across 107 Tests and 181 ODIs, will officially assume the position at the governing body’s upcoming annual general meeting. The former Test batter, who transitioned into administration after a decorated career as an ICC match referee, joined the CA board last year following a nine-year tenure as a director of Cricket Tasmania.
The departure of Baird, a former New South Wales premier, follows just three weeks after he and CA chief executive Todd Greenberg announced plans to implement a self-determination model for state associations regarding the private ownership of BBL teams. The initiative met immediate and fierce resistance, particularly from Cricket New South Wales, which has been vocally opposed to the move. The friction has highlighted a significant divide in the sport, with reports suggesting that states including South Australia and Queensland also hold deep reservations regarding the strategic direction.
“After much consideration I have decided to stand down as CA Chair and Director,” Baird said in a statement. While he acknowledged the professional challenges, he touted the health of the game under his tenure, citing record revenues, profits, and a 40 per cent increase in participation over the past four years. “With recent decisions on the Big Bash I also believe the long-term sustainability is assured,” he added.
Baird also took the opportunity to praise the leadership of CEO Todd Greenberg, whom he labeled “the best sports administrator in the country,” and acknowledged the influence of national captains Pat Cummins, Mitch Marsh, Alyssa Healy, and Sophie Molineux.
For Boon, stepping into the role marks a significant elevation in his administrative career. He acknowledged the gravity of the transition during a period of both opportunity and volatility for the sport.
“It is an enormous honour to take the role of Interim CA Chair during what is a hugely exciting and also challenging time for cricket,” Boon said. “I look forward to leading the CA Board as we continue to make decisions that ensure the long-term health and prosperity of the game here and advancing Australia’s interests globally.”
Boon also paid tribute to the outgoing chair, thanking Baird for his “commitment and leadership” as a passionate advocate for the sport at all levels. As the governing body navigates this high-stakes period of transition, the focus will now shift to whether Boon can bridge the growing divide between the states and the national board.
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