CSA, PCB snub ICC revamp plans

One of the first to oppose a proposed revamp of the ICC’s administrative structure, Cricket South Africa has denied the governing body’s claim that there was “unanimous support” for “key principles” of the plan which would cede executive decision-making to India, Australia and England.

“The support is subject to the approval of the respective Boards of the member countries after which a final decision will be taken at a follow-up ICC Board meeting on February 8,” CSA said in a statement.

ICC said its Board had unanimously supported certain principles following a huge outcry over earlier proposals that could see India, England and Australia take effective control of world cricket.

After South Africa became the first ICC member to object to the initial proposals, they have now been amended to include the world Test leaders in the new Test Match Fund.
CSA has been concerned about poor revenues if the original proposals had been implemented. But this and other concessions to the other seven members nations of the ICC do not appear to have led to unanimous support for the new plans.
“We will be convening a joint session of our CSA Board and certain key stakeholders as soon as is practically possible to consider the principles,” said CSA President and Chairman of the Board Chris Nenzani.

“One of the hallmarks of our new administration has been an absolute adherence to the principles of good corporate governance and we do not intend to deviate from this. Our position will be subject to full consideration by our Board and other stakeholders.
“CSA said no further comments will be made until the CSA Board meeting,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board has refuted claims of “unanimous supporte” too.

“The PCB clearly stated at the meeting that the guiding principles were subject to PCB’s Governing Board’s approval. These matters will be placed before the BOG and thereafter PCB will take its position at the next ICC Board meeting,” a PCB release said.

WICB happy

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) is expecting at least 100 per cent increase in its revenue over the next eight years if the proposed system of ICC revenue sharing is voted in.

“After extensive discussions and careful consideration the West Indies Cricket Board joined with all other Full Members of the ICC in providing support for key principles relating to the future structure, governance and financial models of the ICC,” the release said.

“Based on new proposed system of ICC revenue sharing for the upcoming eight-year cycle (2015-2023), WICB projects to receive at least 100 per cent increase on the previous eight-year cycle (2006-2014),” the release said.

Satisfied with the deal being offered to it in the proposal New Zealand Cricket on Wednesday defended the BCCI’s role in the revamp plan.

“I think one of the problems the ICC has had in recent years was that India has been outside of the camp rather than inside it,” Snedden said.

“Part of what’s been happening at the moment has been a deliberate process, led by Australia and England to actually draw India back in to this.”