Hampshire's First Chief Executive
Tony Baker joined Hampshire as their first ever full-time Chief Executive in March 1986. Tony was a chartered accountant by trade, and was Hampshire's Honorary Treasurer 1977-1986, and after retiring as CEO at the end of the 2001 season he worked part time as Cricket Secretary until 2006. He led Hampshire through their most challenging period and his hard work and dedication was an integral part of the move from the old grounds across to the brand new stadium which is now Utilita Bowl.
Tony Baker was, quite simply, one of the nicest people I have ever worked with. Calm, unflappable and completely honest in everything he did; he was a true gentleman.
One of Tony’s greatest achievements was managing the relocation of Hampshire Cricket from Northlands Road to the Utilita Bowl in a totally seamless manner. Over the two decades or so that I knew him, I don’t recall him ever raising his voice.
Rod Bransgrove, Club Chairman (2001-2023)
As a cricketer, Tony was an opening bowler/all rounder and played for the County's 2nd XI, Southern League representative side, and captained Old Tauntonians to 3 of the first 5 Southern League titles in the early 70's. He also took all 10 wickets (10-26) in the final of a cup match in Southampton in 1972.
A true gentleman, and an absolute champion of a man. I am a better person for meeting and knowing him.
Dimitri Mascarenhas, Former Player & Club Captain
Unfortunately Tony was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2006 and passed away after a long battle in October 2017. He was universally respected for his genial manner, intelligence, dry and quick sense of humour, and for the way that he treated everybody the same, regardless of their status.
Tony is sadly missed by Hampshire Cricket and by the many friends he has made throughout the cricket world and beyond.
A really lovely man who was respected by players and ground staff alike. He even sacked me in a nice way.
Julian Wood, Former Player
