Published: Jun 25, 2015, 03:19 PM (IST)
Edited: Jun 25, 2015, 03:19 PM (IST)
Zaheer Abbas, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s greatest batsmen, has been appointed as the President of the International Council for Cricket (ICC) on day three of the ICC Annual Conference week in Barbados on Wednesday.
Zaheer has played in 78 Tests and 62 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for Pakistan and has led the side in 27 international matches. Hewas widely acknowledged for his unblemished style of play.
The ICC consists of 105 members. The complete council consists of 37 associate members, five affiliate member and 10 full members. The ICC Chairman and ICC Chief Executive are also included in the Full Council but they do not have the liberty to vote.
Zaheer thanked the ICC Board and the Full Council for his prestigious nomination and also began his one-year term. As reported by PTI, Zaheer said, “I feel truly honoured to be appointed as the president of the governing body of a great game. This is the sport which has given us friendship, respect, recognition, and an opportunity to serve our countries in different capacities. Personally speaking, it has given me more than I can possibly repay. ”
He further added, “I am thankful to all of you for the support and confidence placed in me by confirming my nomination. I am also grateful to the PCB for proposing my candidacy as the ICC president. I assure you all, that I will stand shoulder to shoulder with all the ICC members, as we continue to strive to inspire more people to fall in love with the game we cherish.”
N Srinivasan, the ICC Chairman complimented Zaheer on his selection and said, “Zaheer’s outstanding career as a stylish, right-handed batsman is reflected in his remarkable record with 108 first-class hundreds and more than 7,500 international runs. Mr. Abbas is clearly an iconic cricketer who always played the game with skill, flair and in the true spirit. He is a worthy ambassador of our great game.”
