Former Cricket Australia chairman Jack Clarke has died at the age of 70.
Clarke was a hugely influential figure Down Under and served on the Cricket Australia board from 1999 until 2011. He was the chair for the final three years of his tenure.
He was a key player in launching the Big Bash League as chairman and he also commissioned the Argus review into the performance of the men’s team following their embarrassing defeat by England in the 2010-11 Ashes series.
He enjoyed a long career as a solicitor and played grade cricket for Glenelg in Adelaide.
Clarke served as a director with the South Australian Cricket Association for 21 years. In 2012 he was made an Honorary Life Member of the SACA.
Former Cricket Australia chairman Jack Clarke has died at the age of 70
He was pivotal in the formation of the Big Bash League in Australia
‘Jack was an outstanding contributor to Australian, South Australian and international cricket in his major roles with Cricket Australia and the SACA, and much-loved by all who knew him across the game,’ current CA chair Mike Baird said.
‘Jack’s leadership in vital areas including governance and high performance was particularly important during a time when Australian cricket faced some significant challenges. Jack’s passion for the game was immediately apparent to anyone who enjoyed a day at the cricket with him.
‘On behalf of Cricket Australia, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Jack’s wife Sue, his daughters Georgie and Lucy, his extended family and many friends, and all those fortunate to have known him.’
Will Rayner, the SACA chair, said: ‘Jack was one of the true characters of the game. His laugh and zest for life was infectious, and we will miss him dearly.’