Mike Baird Steps Down as Cricket Australia Chair Following NSW Withdrawal of Support

Mike Baird stepped down as Cricket Australia chairman after losing backing from his home state of New South Wales amid efforts to privatise the Big Bash League.

Although Baird remains New South Wales’ nominee to the Cricket Australia board, the state indicated it would withdraw its support and would not back him for any of the independent director positions.

Cricinfo reports that the other states favoured moving Baird to an independent seat that would have allowed him to stay on as chair, but he declined to proceed without unanimous support. It is also understood that he had been contemplating stepping down sometime next year.

“After careful thought I have decided to resign as Cricket Australia chairman and director,” Baird said in a statement. “I am pleased that David Boon has agreed to serve as interim chair while we finalise the appointment process, and I will work with him over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth handover.

“I feel privileged to have contributed to cricket governance on the New South Wales board and, over the past six years, on the Cricket Australia board — including nearly four years as chairman.”

Baird and Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg have spearheaded the drive to attract private investment to the Big Bash League under a ‘self‑determination’ framework that lets each state choose its own path.

Nevertheless, opinions remain split within the sport. New South Wales has consistently opposed the move, arguing that if additional funding is required there are alternatives to private equity.

“This year Cricket Australia is set to record unprecedented revenue, profit, attendance and viewership, and most notably a 40% rise in participation over the last four years,” Baird said. “Given the recent Big Bash decisions, I am confident the league’s long‑term sustainability is secured.” He added, “I also wish to thank the Australian players, particularly the captains I have worked closely with — Pat Cummins, Mitch Marsh, Alyssa Healy and Sophie Molineux — whose on‑field excellence has inspired future generations and exemplified what it means to possess character.

“I am confident that Australian cricket remains in capable hands with the Cricket Australia board, whose blend of experience and passion for the sport assures me of a bright future,” Baird said. “Finally, I want to thank chief executive Todd Greenberg, whom I consider the nation’s top sports administrator and who will undoubtedly steer cricket toward lasting success.”

Baird’s exit from Cricket Australia will also mean he steps down from his International Cricket Council role, where he has developed a close working relationship with chairman Jay Shah.

David Boon, the former Australian batsman who featured in 107 Test matches, joined the Cricket Australia board in 2025. Prior to that he served as an ICC match referee and was a member of Australia’s selection panel between 2000 and 2011.

“It is a tremendous honour to serve as interim Cricket Australia chairman during a period that is both exciting and challenging for the sport,” Boon said. “I am eager to guide the board in making decisions that safeguard the game’s long‑term health and prosperity at home while promoting Australia’s interests worldwide.

“I wish to convey my sincere gratitude to Mike for his dedication and leadership as a passionate champion of Australian cricket, from grassroots clubs through to the Cricket Australia and ICC boardrooms and everywhere in between.”

“Mike’s contributions to leading Australian cricket, navigating the sport’s toughest choices and his influential stance at the ICC deserve recognition from everyone involved in the game.”