The nomination will now go forward for consideration by the ICC Nominations Committee and then to the ICC Board for approval before it is ratified by the Full Council at the 2015 Annual Conference
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Sherharyar Khan on Wednesday named former great cricketer Zaheer Abbas, also known as Asian Bradman, for the International Cricket Council president while addressing a press conference along with Najam Sethi at Gaddafi Stadium.
“It is a great step by the PCB of nominating a Test cricketer for the slot, as it will benefit the ICC as well. During discussions, we will share point of views and ensure drastic steps to further enhance the reputation of the highly respectable world cricket ruling body” Zaheer Abbas said.
When asked about his role as ICC president in reviving international cricket in Pakistan, Zaheer replied: “It’s too early to comment on that. I, being ICC president, will keep eye on all the cricket playing nations and safeguard the rights of all the affiliated member countries. Yes in near future, we will reach a concluding point about it through proper discussions and sharing each-others’ point of view.”
When asked about his personal influence and relations, with different cricket boards and especially with BCCI, would make his task easier, Zaheer replied: “Of course, I enjoy close relations with the BCCI and some other boards as well, but as all are aware after the change in the ICC constitution, it is the chairman who enjoys all the powers. Anyhow, I will work for the betterment of cricket and try to take all the stake holders on board and treat them equally.”
He termed the successful series against Zimbabwe as historic and revival of international cricket in Pakistan. He appreciated the role of PCB, government, security forces, in organizing the series.
“The way the crowd thronged the stadium was a treat to watch. Cricket-loving fans got a chance to witness their heroes playing and performing in front of them. It made huge impact on Pakistani batsmen as well, as after Bangladesh debacle, they were in need of such morale boosting results. The batsmen responded quite well, but I was quite amazed, Pakistan bowling line up failed to produce desired results, which I am sure coaches and the selectors had taken notice, but one thing is quite clear, the selection made the difference. The balanced team selection was another reason behind Pakistani team performing so well.”
To a query regarding upcoming Sri Lanka series, Zaheer replied: “I hope the selectors once again has picked balanced squad keeping in mind the strength and weaknesses of the opponents. I hope the boys will perform well against Sri Lankans at their own backyard, as Lankans are well-known for performing exceptionally against top opponents and exploit home conditions to best of their abilities. My sincere prayers and best wishes are with the team.
“I would be in better position to comment on the ICC related issues once I take over the charge,” Zaheer concluded.
CC confirms receiving nomination of Zaheer Abbas for ICC Presidency
The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) yesterday (Wednesday) nominated former Test captain Zaheer Abbas for the ICC Presidency.
The nomination will now go forward for consideration by the ICC Nominations Committee and then to the ICC Board for approval before it is ratified by the Full Council at the 2015 Annual Conference, which will take place from 21-26 June in Barbados.
Commenting on his nomination, Zaheer Abbas said: “I am honoured and privileged to have been nominated for this prestigious position and, should I be appointed, I would be delighted to represent the ICC as an ambassador for our great game.”
Zaheer Abbas, 67, played 78 Tests and 62 ODIs from 1969 to 1985 in which he scored 5,062 and 2,572 runs, respectively. He also played in the 1975, 1979 and 1983 ICC Cricket World Cups and captained Pakistan in 14 Tests and 13 ODIs.
With 108 centuries, Zaheer is the only Asian batsman to score a century of first-class centuries as he finished his 22-year career with 34,843 runs.
Zaheer was also an ICC match referee in the one Test and three-ODI series in 1993 between Sri Lanka and the West Indies in Sri Lanka.
