Imtiaz Patel on Tuesday thanked the International Cricket Council (ICC) for offering him the job of the CEO of the world governing body, but said he would take up the coveted post only after ‘careful consideration.’

Patel, a South African of Indian origin, said he was deeply honoured that the ICC had selected him as its preferred candidate for the post of ICC Chief Executive.

“I am humbled that the ICC has stated that it will invite me to fulfill such an important role within cricket, a sport that has a very special place in my heart.

“I enjoy a most rewarding and happy career in my current role as CEO of SuperSport, which is a dynamic organisation within a wonderful international group.

“I will therefore be considering my position very carefully during the coming weeks and will be engaging in discussions with the ICC during this period.

“In the interests of the confidentiality of all candidates, I feel that it will be inappropriate to make any further public comment about the ICC post, prior to the finalisation of the process,” he said. The ICC announced on Monday that its Executive Board had approved Patel’s name.