Mel Jones appointed director of Cricket Australia

Two-time fifty-over World Cup winner, two-time Ashes champion, a centurion on Test debut (131), 1279 International runs in 66 games (61 ODIs and 5 Tests) across formats with five half-centuries and one hundred between 1997-2005, former Australian women’s cricketer Mel Jones has added another feather to her already star-studded cap after having been appointed as the director of Cricket Australia.

This is the first instance of a woman being appointed through one of the state associations (Cricket Victoria in this case). Having featured for Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and Surrey during her decorated 16-year-old playing career, Jones will bring a wealth of experience to the table.

Following her playing career, Jones went on to work in player management with TLA- a key partner of Cricket Australia- before she switched to full-time commentary in 2016, where she worked for Nine, ABL and glitzy franchise leagues like IPL, BBL, PSL, and CPL and most recently for Fox TV during Australia’s home summer.

Speaking on the hiring of Jones, Cricket Australia Chair, Earl Eddings said as quoted by Cricket.com.au, “Mel has been an active and inspiring part of the cricket fabric for many years and we are privileged to have her join the Board. Australian Cricket has been undergoing significant change over the past two years and I’ve no doubt Mel’s experience on and off the field will be an asset to the team as we move into our next phase.”

“I’m excited to have this opportunity” – Mel Jones

Jones, who is replacing former Australia captain Mark Taylor, expressed excitement towards the opportunity of working with CA as they aim to strengthen cricket’s bond with the community in the aftermath of the Newlands ball-tampering scandal.

“I’m excited to have this opportunity to work with the Board to strengthen cricket’s bond with the community and ensure a healthy and sustainable future for the next generations.  I have much admiration for the work that has been undertaken over the past 18 month, in particular, an incredibly challenging time for cricket, and a testament to its place in the hearts of Australians,” said Jones

Jones also took to Twitter where she said, “Can’t wait to bring a lifetime of cricket experiences, conversations & connections to the board of @CricketAus. So appreciative for the chance to play a role in making cricket stronger, more enjoyable & inclusive for all on and off the field. #SportsForAll”

Can’t wait to bring a lifetime of cricket experiences, conversations & connections to the board of @CricketAus. So appreciative for the chance to play a role in making cricket stronger, more enjoyable & inclusive for all on and off the field. #SportForAll https://t.co/aZh8JuNuhr pic.twitter.com/WGXifq1CQR

— Mel 'MJ' Jones (@meljones_33) November 6, 2019