ICC Chief Executive to visit Zimbabwe

ICC Chief Executive, Malcolm Speed, will travel to Zimbabwe tomorrow with the Chief Executive of the ICC Cricket World Cup Organising Committee, Dr Ali Bacher, to take part in the final signing off of the Security Plan for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2003 matches in Zimbabwe.

As part of the security arrangements for its games the Zimbabwe Cricket Union is required to submit a comprehensive security plan to the ICC detailing the arrangements that will be in place to protect players and officials during their time in the country.

The blueprint for the plan was developed by the Security Directorate for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2003, a body comprising senior members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and specialist security advisers contracted for the event. Senior representatives of SAPS and the Security Directorate will also travel to Zimbabwe to review the proposed security arrangements.

Mr Speed said that the meeting would provide the opportunity to examine in detail the security arrangements that will be in place for the tournament.

"The safety and security of players and officials in Zimbabwe is clearly an issue for some countries and this meeting is an important opportunity for the ICC to see first hand how the security arrangements for this event are proceeding," said Mr Speed.

"The visit of the Security Delegation in November 2002 highlighted the importance of this plan being fully implemented and I want to ensure that the ICC is fully aware of and briefed on the steps that are being taken to protect players and officials."

Media Contact:

Brendan McClements General Manager - Corporate Affairs International Cricket Council Ph + 44 (0) 20 7266 1818 Mob + 44 (0) 7786 194974