ICC to explore alternatives following New Zealand decision

The International Cricket Council (ICC) today acknowledged that the prospects of the New Zealand v Kenya game proceeding were diminishing, after New Zealand Cricket (NZC) advised the ICC through a public statement that it would not play in Nairobi.

ICC Chief Executive Malcolm Speed said that he recognised the serious security issues raised by New Zealand, and that he would be working to see if there was any prospect of the match proceeding or being rescheduled.

"The issue of safety and security is clearly the main concern of both the ICC and New Zealand Cricket, and at present NZC is not satisfied that it is safe to play in Kenya," said Mr Speed.

"The ICC Cricket World Cup Organising Committee and the ICC will make available our intelligence and security advisers, to provide a detailed briefing on the advice that we have received in relation to this game.

"There are also independent processes available to the NZC through which it can seek a review of the ICC's judgment and decision.

"New Zealand Cricket is entitled to seek this review in light of any concerns it may hold and it is appropriate that the ICC's decisions are thoroughly scrutinised in this way."

Mr Speed said that he will be talking to NZC Chief Executive, Martin Snedden, as soon as possible, to confirm the appropriate ICC disputes resolution process to be used in this instance.

The possible options include an independent ICC committee of up to five members to hear the dispute, arbitration through the Court of Arbitration for Sport or the ICC Cricket World Cup Events Technical Committee.

Brendan McClements
General Manager - Corporate Affairs
International Cricket Council
Ph + 44 (0) 20 7266 1818
Mob + 44 (0) 7786 194974