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Cricket

Patel pulls out as ICC continues search for new chief exec

31/03/2008

Imtiaz Patel has withdrawn his interest in becoming the next chief executive of world cricket's governing body, the International Cricket Council.

ICC president-elect David Morgan said he was "disappointed" with Mr Patel's decision to remain in South Africa as an employee of Supersport International.

However, he has vowed to continue with the recruitment process to appoint a successor to current chief executive Malcolm Speed.

Speed is due to step down after seven years in the position at the end of the ICC's annual conference, which concludes on July 4th.

Commenting on Patel's decision, Morgan said: "We are obviously disappointed that Imtiaz has chosen to withdraw his interest, having regarded him highly.

"However, the fact that Imtiaz has withdrawn does not mean that, by default, we will be left with a candidate who is, in any way, inferior to him.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."

Morgan claimed the "challenging" role represents an opportunity for the successful individual "to help forge the future of our great game at a time of huge innovation and excitement".

And he promised the recruitment committee - comprised of Speed, current ICC president Ray Mali, Creagh O'Connor, and vice president Sharad Pawar - would be making an appointment "in the very near future".

Mr Patel himself stated: "My family and I have reflected deeply on the wonderful opportunity which the ICC presented to me to fulfill such an important role in a sport which is in my blood.

"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."