(Cricket news) Christina Matthews was appointed for significant service to cricket as a player and administrator, and to women. Christina has been recognised for her playing achievements and her involvement in sports administration at Cricket NSW, Cricket Australia, and WA Cricket, as well as her presence on boards and sub-committees benefiting women in sport. Christina Matthews was wicketkeeper for the Australian Women’s Cricket Team from 1984 – 1995 and Vice Captain from 1991 – 1994.

During this time, Christina played in 20 Test matches and 47 One Day Internationals. During her final year of playing, Christina was appointed the Coaching and Development Manager for Women’s Cricket Australia which is a role she held for nine years before becoming General Manager of the UTS-Balmain District Cricket Club.

In 2022 Christiana returned to Cricket NSW as Events and Supporter Clubs Coordinator before becoming General Manager of Commercial Operations, Marketing, and Communications for seven years. During this time, Christinawas also involved with Cricket Australia as a member of the Women’s National Selection Panel from 2007 – 2011. She then made the move to Western Australia to take the helm of WA Cricket in 2012 where she has overseen the most successful period of the organisation’s history both on and off the field. Christina Matthews announced she would be stepping down from the role of WA Cricket CEO earlier this year after a twelve-year tenure.

She has been a Member of the Women of Sport Advisory Committee since 2021 and Chair of the Western Australia Chapter Minerva Network since 2020. Previously she was a Member of the Ministerial Advisory Council for Females in Sports Leadership and Chair of the Western Australia Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries Champions of Change, both from 2015 – 2017. Matthews was Chair of the Hawaiian Ride for Youth organising committee from 2020 – 2023 and is still a Board Director.

Christina was recognised as the 2022 Western Australia Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries Sports Administrator of the Year, and is a Life Member of the Marylebone Cricket Club and Melbourne Cricket Club. Matthews says being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia is an honour that has allowed her to reflect on her career.

“It is a humbling experience to look back on my many years in cricket, both as a player and administrator, and there are many people who have helped me get to where I am today,” Matthews said. “As I prepare to leave WA Cricket in two months, I am proud to see the organisation in a period of growth, connecting and embracing people from all backgrounds and abilities, and providing an inclusive and safe space for all.

“I am passionate about providing equal opportunities and empowering women, so to be recognised for service to women is something that is very special to me in an area that I will continue to champion. “This is an incredible honour and thank you to everyone who has assisted and guided me along the way.” WA Cricket also wishes to congratulate the following recipients of Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) with significant ties to cricket in the State.

Former WA player Dr Helen Elizabeth Parker (AM) for significant service to health science and physical education. Former WA and Australian player and current coach of WA Cricket’s Aboriginal Talent Academy Zoë Goss (OAM) for service to cricket WACA Board Director Michael Snell (OAM) for service to business, and to the community Former WA and Australian player Dawn Newman (OAM) for service to the community through Zonta International, and to cricket
Claremont Nedlands Cricket Club Vice President Leo John McManus (OAM) for service to local government, and to the community of Nedlands

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