David Boon, who played a pivotal role in Australia's 1987 World Cup triumph and later served as an ICC match referee for 14 years, has officially retired.

A Legendary Figure Says Goodbye to Cricket

David Boon, a name etched into cricketing folklore—not just for his gritty batting but also for his charismatic persona—has announced his retirement as an ICC match referee. Boon, 64, worked with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for 14 years, officiating in hundreds of international matches across formats. However, aside from his cricketing credentials, he is also famously remembered for a quirky world record: drinking 52 cans of beer during a flight from Australia to England.

A Record Unlike Any Other: 52 Beers on a Flight

Boon’s legendary beer-drinking feat occurred in 1989 during the Ashes tour. On a Qantas flight en route to England, he reportedly consumed 52 cans of Victoria Bitter beer, surpassing a long-standing Australian team record of 44 beers—previously held by cricket greats Doug Walters and Rod Marsh. According to teammates, Boon had already downed 22 cans by the time the flight landed in Singapore for a stopover. His teammate Dean Jones recalled that Boon eventually fell asleep but was awakened mid-flight by applause after the pilot announced he had broken the record.

This humorous yet iconic moment continues to be a talking point in Australian sports history, highlighting Boon’s colorful off-field personality in contrast to his composed demeanor on the pitch.

A Stalwart Match Referee for 14 Years

Boon's post-retirement career as a match official was equally impactful. He stood as match referee in:

• 87 Test matches
• 183 One Day Internationals (ODIs)
• 119 T20 Internationals (T20Is)
• 7 Women's T20Is

In a video message shared by the ICC, Boon reflected on the challenges of his role, mentioning issues like ball tampering and player safety as among the most demanding during his tenure. He emphasized that match refereeing is a learning experience every single day.

A Hero of the 1987 World Cup

Before donning the referee’s hat, David Boon was a vital cog in Australia's batting lineup. He was one of the key contributors to Australia’s 1987 World Cup victory, showcasing his skill and grit at the top of the order. He ended his playing career with 32 Test half-centuries, earning a reputation as one of the most dependable batsmen of his era.

Next Chapter: Director at Cricket Australia

Although Boon is stepping down from his ICC role, he will continue his association with cricket. He is set to take on a new position as Director at Cricket Australia, ensuring his vast experience continues to benefit the game.

Tributes Pour In from the Cricketing World

ICC Chairman Jay Shah paid tribute to Boon’s legacy, stating:

“David Boon’s professionalism and integrity have set a benchmark for match officials around the world. On behalf of the ICC, I thank him for his exemplary service.”

Conclusion: A Career Built on Passion, Discipline, and a Dash of Aussie Spirit

David Boon's journey—from a mustachioed batsman feared by bowlers, to a beer-drinking legend on flights, to a respected ICC official—is truly one of a kind. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his contributions to world cricket, both on and off the field, will not be forgotten.