Sir Michael Barber confirmed as new Somerset chair

Barber, who has previously worked with the Lawn Tennis Association, Team Sky and the FA, will replace Gordon Baird, who has opted against seeking another term as chair

Sir Michael Barber has been confirmed as the new chair of Somerset CCC.

The 66-year-old, whose background is in education and government management, will replace Gordon Baird, who has opted against seeking another term at the helm. 

Barber has previously worked with the Lawn Tennis Association and Team Sky as well as serving on the FA’s technical advisory board since 2016.

He will officially take his new position on May 9.

Commenting on being appointed chair, Barber said: "As an avid fan of county cricket over the years and a local person, living in North Devon, I am thrilled and honoured to take on this role.

"I have been impressed by the immense contribution Somerset makes both to cricket in England and Wales and to the south-west region, especially in recent years. The flow of Somerset cricketers into England teams – women as well as men – is impressive. Somerset’s results over the last decade on the field are striking too.

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"The club is rightly famous for its impressive and highly committed membership base and has been managed well through challenging times. These are all strong foundations for the next phase of the club’s history as we approach our 150th anniversary, in 2025.

"I hope my knowledge and experience of working with governments, education institutions and elite sports teams, will enable me to contribute, alongside others, to Somerset’s success in the future."

Incumbent chair, Baird, added: "After what has been a difficult period for so many people, I am delighted to say that the club emerges from the pandemic in a robust position both on and off the field.

"This is thanks to the hard work, dedication and passion of our ever loyal and supportive members, players, executive team, staff, legion of committee members and volunteers. It has been an honour to represent Somerset CCC throughout this challenging time and I wish Sir Michael every success in the role."

"Sir Michael is an outstanding leader with a genuine passion for the game and with a clear understanding of the current cricket landscape, he shares a commitment to securing Somerset’s position within the game as a successful members club both on and off the field. Most importantly he has the experience, skills and passion to support the executive team and cricket staff in achieving their goals."

Meanwhile, chief executive Gordon Hollins paid tribute to both men: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gordon Baird for his unwavering commitment and support during what has been a turbulent time. His contribution to the club has played an important role in ensuring that we are in the strong position that we currently find ourselves in.

"I now look forward to working with Sir Michael and the new board, to deliver a strategy designed to ensure the club and cricket in the south-west flourishes for years to come."