Dubai: South Africa's Imtiaz Patel has withdrawn his interest in assuming role as next chief executive officer of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The ICC had named Patel as their preferred candidate to become  the new chief. However, he has opted to continue as chief executive  of broadcaster SuperSport.

"My family and I have reflected deeply on the wonderful  opportunity, which the ICC presented to me to fulfil such an important role in a sport which is in my blood," Patel said. "After considering my position carefully, I have, however, resolved to remain in my beloved country, South Africa, and  continue in my challenging and fulfilling role as chief executive  officer of SuperSport International," he added.

ICC president-elect David Morgan was disappointed at Patel's decision but insisted it would not derail the governing body from finding the right man for the role.

"We are obviously disappointed that Imtiaz has chosen to withdraw his interest, having regarded him highly," said Morgan. "However, the fact that Imtiaz has withdrawn does not mean that, by default, we will be left with a candidate who is, in any way, inferior to him. In fact, we have been fortunate to have several high calibre candidates on the shortlist, all of whom bring something slightly different to the table," he said.

The role of ICC chief executive officer, while challenging, represents a huge opportunity for the successful candidate, he  added. The Recruitment Committee charged with identifying a successor to current CEO Malcolm Speed, ICC presidents Ray Mali, Creagh O'Connor, and vice president Sharad Pawar will now reconvene.

Once the Recruitment Committee has identified a preferred candidate, it will make a recommendation to the Board with a view to confirming the appointment at the earliest opportunity. 

The incoming CEO will take over from Speed, who will step down from the role after this year's ICC Annual Conference which will take place between June 29 and July 4. 

Source : UNI