Former Australia chair Jack Clarke passes away at 70

Former Cricket Australia (CA) chair Jack Clarke breathed his last on Wednesday, April 10 in Adelaide, Australia. The news of his demise was announced by CA on their official 'X' handle and the cricket fraternity has been mourning the irreparable loss of the Clarke family.

Clarke was an influential figure in Australian cricket. The renowned administrator served on the CA board from 1999 to 2011. Between 2008 and 2011, he was the CA chair. During his tenure as the chair of CA, he played an important role in launching the Big Bash League (BBL). The immensely successful tournament began in December 2011 and has grown from strength to strength over the years.

Also Read: 'I signed here wanting to play all games': Nathan Lyon slams Cricket Australia over shortening the County stint

Clarke also commissioned the Argus review into the performance of the national team after their 2010-11 home Ashes series defeat that led to a restructuring of CA's high-performance arm. He had played grade cricket in Adelaide for Glenelg before venturing into the administrative field.

"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 was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

"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," he added.

Also Read: 'It's been challenging so far' - Steve Smith opens up on his role as Test opener for Australia

Clarke worked as the director of the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) for 21 years and was made an Honorary Life Member of the SACA in 2012.

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."