Baird resigns as Cricket Australia chair amid BBL fallout

Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird resigned on Monday after Cricket NSW withdrew support over the partial privatisation of the Big Bash League. Baird said he stood down after the board pushed ahead with the sale of the Melbourne Renegades franchise despite domestic opposition. Former Test opener David Boon was named interim chair until the annual general meeting in late October.

Baird had faced months of scrutiny over plans to sell stakes in the eight BBL teams. Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania backed the move, but New South Wales and Queensland rejected it. Cricket Australia has sought private investment to secure the competition's finances.

Boon, who will serve in the interim role, said the position was an honour during an exciting and challenging time for Australian cricket. He previously served as a national selector and state administrator.