New chief executive outlines challenges

The ICC needs to adapt to the demands of the present, its next chief executive has said. In an exclusive interview with Cricinfo, and later at a press conference in Cape Town, Haroon Lorgat, the South African set to take over from incumbent Malcolm Speed later this year, emphasised the challenges in different directions.

Lorgat also stressed the image of cricket, which has taken a beating in recent years, needed to be looked after. "There have been certain incidents over the past few years that have impacted on the image of cricket," he said. "Being such a global sport it is a challenge that is always going to be there, to protect the image and manage the potential conflicts that one might see coming.

"There's some work to done to ensure we better manage those sort of situations."

A few recent episodes, such as the Oval Test fiasco in 2006 and the subsequent handling of umpire Darrell Hair, as well as the shoddy organisation of the World Cup, had led to intense criticism of the ICC and Speed. Lorgat, though, said he would adopt a less confrontational when dealing with the member nations.

"Whatever I say is not to be construed as a criticism of my predecessor but by nature I'm someone who has come through a team ethos," Lorgat said. "I would prefer to make sure that as member countries we work together and that we come out with a common solution."

Lorgat was also unfazed by talk of India dominating affairs behind the scenes at the ICC, given their financial influence on the game. "I too have read various articles in the media about India's influence on the ICC. But I have also read the views of various members, and they have not experienced anything of this sort," he said. "So this could be a perception more than a reality. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of all members to present a united front and assist the ICC in moving towards a common vision.

"My understanding is that all member boards get along very well with each other. So once again, this could be a matter of perception more than reality," he said. "I know the Board of Control for Cricket in India is very mindful of protecting and supporting the International Cricket Council in delivering the game across the globe. Working with India we can grow the game of cricket."