DUBAI, March 31: The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Monday that South African businessman Imtiaz Patel has ruled himself out of becoming the organisation’s next chief.

Patel indicated his decision in a telephone conversation with ICC President-Elect David Morgan on Sunday, cricket’s governing body said in a statement.

The ICC’s Recruitment Committee will now reconvene, identify a preferred candidate, and make a recommendation to the ICC Board “with a view to confirming the appointment at the earliest opportunity.”

Current ICC Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Speed steps down from the role after the ICC annual conference, which takes place between June 29 and July 4.

Speed has held the position since July 2001, when he took over from the ICC’s first chief, David Richards.

Commenting on Patel’s decision, Morgan said: “We are obviously disappointed that Imtiaz has chosen to withdraw his interest, having regarded him highly.

“However, the fact that Imtiaz has withdrawn does not mean that, by default, we will be left with a candidate who is, in any way, inferior to him.

“In fact, we have been fortunate to have several high calibre candidates on the shortlist, all of whom bring something slightly different to the table.

“We remain committed to securing the services of the right candidate and we anticipate being able to complete that task in the very near future,” he added.

The ICC statement quoted Patel as saying: “My family and I have reflected deeply on the wonderful opportunity which the ICC presented to me to fulfil such an important role in a sport which is in my blood.

“After considering my position carefully, I have, however, resolved to remain in my beloved country, South Africa, and continue in my challenging and fulfilling role as Chief Executive Officer of SuperSport International.”—AFP