“In almost every measure, James’s tenure has been truly remarkable and has taken cricket to new heights and we wish James well for whatever the future brings, and welcome Kevin Roberts as his successor."

Sutherland said cricket had defined the nation's character since even before Federation and in the wake of scandals like sandpaper gate, it was vital to respect the role it played in society.

“It has been an absolute privilege to work for cricket," he said. “Cricket is a game that has always meant so much to so many Australians.

“Indeed, as we have often discussed, there was an Australian Cricket Team before there was an Australian nation. In many ways cricket helped to define Australia as a nation.

“More than ever before, our sport is a game for all Australians, young and old, male and female, regardless of national or cultural background.

“As we know, it is an issues-rich sport, with frequent controversies and occasional disappointments. The public’s deep affection for the game is not taken for granted, but as we have seen over the years, it does ensure that the sport is resilient in the face of difficult times.

“Cricket has changed almost constantly since it was first played centuries ago – and indeed during my 20 years at Cricket Australia.

“My successors and in turn, their successors, will need to remain focused on the changing needs of Australian society as our nation continues to evolve, but in a manner that remains true to our cricket community and the spirit of cricket.

“Cricket has a bright and exciting future ahead of it – and I am confident that cricket will over the coming decade continue to enhance its status as Australia’s favourite sport and a sport for all Australians.”

Three directors retired by rotation at the meeting – David Peever, Dr Lachlan Henderson, and Michael Kasprowicz – and Tony Harrison also announced his retirement as a Director after 16 years while Paul Green was elected to the Cricket Australia Board.
 
“I’d to make special mention of Tony Harrison for his outstanding service to the Board over a period of 16 years," said Peever.
 
“Tony brought significant public affairs and marketing skills and experience to the Cricket Australia board, and throughout his time on the board has always maintained close contact with the cricket community.
 
“Tony has a great passion for women’s cricket and always prosecuted these matters with great vigour. Tony was chairman of our women’s cricket sub-committee for several years and played a vital role in the formal affiliation of the women’s game with Cricket Australia in 2003.
 
“The Board thanks Tony for his outstanding service to cricket, and we look forward to welcoming Paul Green to the Board, and we know that Paul will serve Australian Cricket well.
 
“In addition, I’d like to express my congratulations to Earl Eddings on his appointment as Deputy Chairman.
 
“Earl joined the CA Board in 2008, and is currently Co-Chair of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cricket Advisory Committee, and he will continue to serve cricket in this important role"