Snedden to stand down as NZ board chairman

Martin Snedden: on his way in May © Getty Images

Martin Snedden, the chief executive of New Zealand Cricket, will step down to take up a similar role with the company running the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

"Martin brings all of the right qualities to this role," Jock Hobbs, the chairman of New Zealand Rugby Union, said. "As a New Zealander he also shares our passion to make Rugby World Cup 2011 the best ever tournament and a showcase for New Zealand on the world stage."

Snedden, who will take up the job in May next year, said he was looking forward to the challenge. "Rugby World Cup 2011 will be an exciting time for New Zealand as we host one of the world's premier sports events and I am excited about being part of this." He added he was sad to be leaving cricket after a long association as a player, board member and chief executive.

Snedden played 25 Tests and 93 ODIs for New Zealand between 1981 and 1990 and has been chief executive of New Zealand Cricket since 2001. He has not been without his critics, especially regarding the reduction of Test cricket played by the country and also for his board's insistence on touring Zimbabwe in 2005.