ICC starts search for Speed's replacement

The ICC has engaged a top firm of management consultants in its bid to find a successor to Malcolm Speed who steps down as chief executive in July.

Egon Zehnder International were appointed after six companies were interviewed by senior ICC officials. An ICC recruitment committee, made up of Ray Mali, David Morgan, Sharad Pawar and Creagh O'Connor, Cricket Australia's chairman, will oversee the process.

That process will see the recruitment committee make a recommendation to the ICC board for approval, and it is envisaged the successful candidate will take up the role vacated by Speed at the conclusion of ICC annual conference.

"Malcolm Speed has helped spearhead the growth of the organisation to the point where we can now boast 101 members with the game buttressed by a long-term broadcasting agreement covering our major events," said Morgan. "Now, with Malcolm stepping down after seven years in the role, we need a person to continue cricket's positive momentum in what will be an exciting and challenging future.

"We are looking for a candidate who can continue to help us deliver on the objectives of the ICC's strategic plan, someone who understands the major issues confronting the game, and someone who can ensure continued unity among our diverse membership to help our strong sport grow even stronger in the years to come."