David Boon Appointed Interim Cricket Australia Chair as Mike Baird Concludes Transformational Ten-Year Term

Cricket Australia has announced a leadership transition with former Test batting stalwart David Boon set to assume the role of interim chair at next month’s annual general meeting on October 28.

The governance shift follows the decision of outgoing chair Mike Baird to step down after six years of service on the board, including nearly four years leading the national sporting body. Baird’s departure coincides with his recent appointment as NRMA Group CEO and follows significant strategic rulings regarding the commercialisation and self-determination privatisation model of the Big Bash Leagues, which includes inviting bids for a 100 per cent stake in the Melbourne Renegades license ahead of the 2027-28 domestic seasons.

Reflecting on his tenure, outgoing chair, Mike Baird, expressed strong confidence in the organisation’s trajectory.

“I believe Australian cricket continues to be well led by the CA Board.”

“Their mix of significant experience and passion for the game gives me great confidence for the future.

“This year CA will report record revenue, profit, attendance and viewership, and most importantly a 40 per cent increase in participation over the past four years.

“I have been incredibly proud to play a role in the oversight of cricket on the CNSW Board and, over the last six years, the CA Board, including almost four as chair.

“I am delighted that David Boon has agreed to undertake the interim chair role while we complete the formal chair process, and I will undertake a transition process with David over coming weeks,” he said.

Accepting the interim appointment, Boon emphasised his commitment to continuity and global market expansion for the organisation.

“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.”

“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.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to Mike for his commitment and leadership as a passionate advocate for Australian cricket from grassroots clubs right through to the Cricket Australia and ICC boardrooms and all in between,” Boon said. 

Having navigated initial policy discussions with Cricket New South Wales regarding structural reform, Baird consulted closely with state stakeholders before stepping down to ensure ongoing governance stability and institutional unity.

Boon brings extensive executive credentials to the post, having completed a nine-year tenure on the Cricket Tasmania board, including three years as chair, alongside a distinguished international playing career and fourteen years serving as an official international match referee.

A formal recruitment process to appoint a permanent chair will be conducted over the coming months. Meanwhile, Cricket New South Wales will nominate a replacement director to fill the vacancy on the Cricket Australia board.

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