Cricket: Major problems awaiting Snedden

By RICHARD BOOCK


Martin Snedden will this week join his international colleagues in debating two of the most vexing issues facing world cricket.

The New Zealand chief executive yesterday flew to Lahore for the ICC's executive board meeting, which is expected to discuss the inquiry into racism in Zimbabwe cricket and the future structure of the test and one-day international programmes.

Last month's hearing into racism within the Zimbabwe Cricket Union, held in Harare, was aborted in the early stages, with players later alleging witness intimidation.

But with England scheduled to tour the troubled country this summer, the issue is showing no sign of abating, and is instead becoming a potential powder-keg in terms of international relations.

The meeting will consider the report of India's Solicitor General, Agleam Vahanvati, and South African High Court Judge Steven Majiedt, into the allegations of racism within the ZCU.

However, several British newspapers have already suggested that the ICC will rule that it found no evidence of racism, rather than risk the chance of igniting a diplomatic spat.

The meeting will also follow up an earlier discussion on a suggested need to address the wide disparity between the eight established cricket nations, and relative newcomers Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.

The debate is expected to canvas ideas such as adjusting the tours programme, and splitting international matches into two divisions.

Other matters on the agenda include a recommended amendment to the ICC Code of Conduct to include team selectors in the definition of team officials.