It is with much sadness that the WA Country Cricket Board acknowledges the passing of one of the pioneers of the CCB and former Chair – Lyle Jones.
Lyle Jones had a significant impact on cricket in WA and in particular WA Country Cricket. In his 28 years as a coach and an administrator Lyle demonstrated incredible leadership, dedication, commitment, responsible decision-making and passion for the game that led to cricket in WA being far richer for his involvement. Through his strong relationships with the farming and sporting communities in rural WA, Lyle forged some important partnerships that saw country cricket in WA prosper immensely during his time, particularly as the Chair of the WACCB. His initiatives in the field of sponsorship have left a legacy for future generations of cricketers. Country competitions and programs are fortunate to have had several long-term sponsors due to his personal involvement.
After having a substantial impact on cricket in the Bruce Rock region during the 1970s and 1980s Lyle successfully nominated to represent the Central Districts region on the WACCB (formerly the WA Country Cricket Executive), commencing in January 1989.
After being the Deputy Chairman of the CCE from 1990-1994, Lyle was elected Chairman in 1994, a position he held until his retirement in 2004.
During Lyle’s period as Chairman several notable achievements occurred.
Concerned with the decline in population in country areas in the 1990s, the CCE, with the help of the WACA, attempted to address the situation. The result was the Goddard Report. This was adopted in 2001 and resulted in Regional Boards being restructured to manage both junior and senior cricket in each of the 6 Regions. The CCE was replaced with the Country Cricket Board, comprising an elected representative from each Region, with Lyle as the independent Chairman and the appointment of a full-time country cricket coordinator.
On behalf of the WA Country Cricket and all associated with WA Country Cricket, we pay our respects to Lyle Jones and pass on our deepest condolences to his family.