Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird Quits Amid BBL Privatisation Fallout

Mike Baird has resigned as chair of Cricket Australia, effective immediately, amid fallout from the privatisation of Big Bash League clubs.

Baird, who had served on the CA board for six years and as chair since February 2023, informed fellow board members on Monday that he would not seek re-election at next month's annual general meeting.

Interim Chair Appointed

David Boon will take over as interim chair while the formal chair process is completed. Baird had the option to move into an independent role but chose not to continue without the support of all states.

"After much consideration I have decided to stand down as CA chair and director," Baird said in a statement.

"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."

Baird's Legacy

Baird cited the privatisation of the BBL as a positive move for the sport, highlighting record revenue, profit, attendance, and viewership, as well as a 40 per cent increase in participation over the past four years.

"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," Baird said.

"With recent decisions on the Big Bash I also believe the long-term sustainability is assured."

"I believe Australian cricket continues to be well lead by the CA board."

Backlash from Cricket NSW

Baird's exit follows a backlash from Cricket NSW, which slammed the decision to allow privatisation earlier this month.

"This decision risks leaving cricket in NSW and Australia strategically and financially worse off, with direct consequences for our ability to invest in grassroots cricket," a Cricket NSW statement said.