Andrew Eade hot favourite for ICC Global Development Manager's role

New Zealander Andrew Eade will almost certainly be appointed as the ICC's new Global Development OFficer later this month.

The 38 year-old fills the role vacated by Australian, Ross Turner, who resigned from the post earlier this year.

Turner will return to Australia to assume a Development Officer's position with the Australian Cricket Board.

Eade clinched the job on the basis of his impressive performance over the past 12 months as the ICC's inaugural East Asia-Pacific Development OFficer.

The popular former Aucklander has revived enthusiasm for cricket in countries in the South Pacific which had been ailing following neglect.

He has earned a reputation for among jaded cricket officials for getting things done.

His application was enhanced by the fact he is the only leading contender to come from within the ICC 'system'.

Kenya Cricket Association official, Phil Toye, and former Pakistan One Day International player, Iqbal Sikander, were the other main contenders.

While Turner officially cited family reasons for quitting the position, several sources have also claimed that privately, he was disillusioned with the ICC's notorious political machinations.

Meanwhile, Turner said establishing a regular international tournament structure in each continent was the next goal of the ICC's Global Development programme.

He also confirmed that all Associate countries would be eligible for next year's ICC Trophy in Canada, ending speculation that numbers would be restricted due to financial constraints.