Sharad Pawar
The ICC executive board met in Mumbai on the 4th of April discussed certain issues important for the growth of positive and competitive cricket in future.
The meeting which took place in Taj Mahal Palace hotel was started off with the ICC congratulating India for the World Cup victory. ICC President Mr. Sharad Pawar thanked the Indian Prime Minister Mr. Singh, Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina and President of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapakse for their extended support and for their love of the sport.
He concluded with the words “The tournament reinforced the attraction of 50 over cricket and showed the enthusiasm and excitement generated by nation vs nation cricket. There is no doubt that this event has been a great advertisement for ODI cricket. I would like to congratulate both the Indian team and the Sri Lankan team for a befitting final match at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai which was played in the best of spirits and provided great entertainment to millions following the game the world over.”
The issues discussed in the meeting are as follows:
1) Donation of $1m to New Zealand Cricket board for the losses and for reconstructing its offices damaged during the earthquake that hit New Zealand in February.
2) ICC agreed to review its process of sale of tickets especially after black marketing of tickets during the World Cup.
3) The ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 in New Zealand – Australia and the one in 2019 in England shall have 10 teams participating in the tournament.
4) Strategic planning of the three forms of the game for the future. In support of this Mr. Haroon Lorgat said ‘The strategy is the product of wide ranging and constructive engagement held with the world’s leading cricket administrators and stakeholders. The plan covers a range of strategic topics from the role of the ICC, governance, promotion and protection of the three forms of the game, competition and meritocratic pathways as well as targeted investment. The targeted funding for members will be used to protect the game and its integrity; provide a platform for success and also focus on growth and improvement of playing standards.’
5) There shall be some changes in the constitution of the ICC to prevent interference of Governments in the administration of boards, selection process of players, coaches, support staff etc., of various boards.
6) ICC Cricket World T20 cup shall comprise of 16 teams instead of the usual 12 teams to give six associate member teams a chance to play in the international forum every two years.
The ICC was represented in this meeting by
Sharad Pawar – ICC President
Alan Isaac – ICC Vice-President
Haroon Lorgat – ICC Chief Executive
The Indian Board was represented by Shashank Manohar.
Tags: BCCI, Cricket, Executive Committee, ICC, India, Mumbai, ODI Cricket, Sharad Pawar, Sport, World Cup
