Icc To Consider Test And Odi Leagues
The International Cricket Council has proposed introducing Test and one-day international leagues after ongoing calls from players and coaches.??
The ICC chief executives’ committee (CEC) has recommended setting up a Test league that would include a playoff involving the top four teams to crown a champion – with the inaugural playoff being held in 2013.
??A one-day league, the first running from 2011-14 and separate from the Cricket World Cup, would culminate in a ODI league champion.
??Other recommendations include a change in the number of teams competing in the Cricket World Cup down to 10 teams instead of the 16 competing at next year’s tournament.
??The number of teams in the World Twenty20 would be increased to 16 teams and there would be an introduction of Twenty20 rankings.??
ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat said that he was excited by the ‘far-reaching’ plans and urged the ICC executive board to consider the proposals.
It was also announced that an investigation into International Cricket Council’s (ICC) anti-corruption measures is to be carried out following pressure from all 10 Test-playing nations.??
The ICC chief executives’ committee wants to conduct an independent review after spot-fixing allegations against three Pakistan players in a match against England. ??
And ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat revealed a review is already underway: ‘We must continue to assess and, where necessary, improve our processes, it is not enough that the ICC is regarded by other sporting organisations as a leader in the battle against corruption in sport.’
‘The ICC’s chief executives’ committee has wisely recommended a thorough review of all our procedures and protocols and that is something which is already underway.’
??Pakistan players Salman Butt, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were caught by a News of the World sting appearing to take money in return for bowling timed no-balls – which has led to them being provisionally suspended and charged by the ICC.??
The chief executives’ committee comprises the heads of the 10 Test-playing members.
