Prime Highlights:
- Sarah Keane will become the first woman to lead an ICC Full Member nation, taking over as CEO of Cricket Ireland in March 2026.
- Her appointment marks a historic step for Irish and global sport, reflecting progress in women’s leadership and governance.
Key Facts:
- Keane has served as CEO of Swim Ireland since 2004, leading it to its best-ever Olympic results at the Paris 2024 Games.
- She was also the first female President of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, guiding the organisation to record success at the same Games.
Background:
Irish sport is set for a historic leadership change in 2026, as Sarah Keane has been named the next Chief Executive Officer of Cricket Ireland. She will officially take up the role in March next year, following her departure from Swim Ireland in February 2026.
Keane’s appointment is a major moment for world cricket, as she will be the first woman to lead an ICC Full Member nation. The decision came after a global search, with the Board of Cricket Ireland unanimously choosing her for her strong leadership and clear vision for the sport.
Keane said she is very excited and honoured to take on the role of Cricket Ireland’s new CEO. She noted that cricket is a global sport and that Ireland has great opportunities ahead, including its path to the 2028 Olympics, the growth of the women’s game, and hosting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2030.
Keane is among Ireland’s most respected sports administrators, having led Swim Ireland since 2004. Under her leadership, the organisation became one of Ireland’s most progressive and successful governing bodies.
Beyond these achievements, Keane improved how Swim Ireland was managed and made it more professional and inclusive. She led the National Swimming Strategy to boost participation and improve facilities across Ireland.
As the first female President of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, she also guided the team to record success at Paris 2024. She also holds key international roles with World Aquatics, European Aquatics, and the European Olympic Committees.
Cricket Ireland Chair Brian MacNeice described Keane as “a world-class sports leader and a person of great integrity.” Swim Ireland Chair Cathal Marley said, “Her legacy of high performance and inclusion leaves our sport stronger than ever.”
Keane’s appointment marks a new chapter for Irish cricket, one built on growth, opportunity, and inspiring female leadership on the global stage.
