The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a notice period to USA Cricket and Cricket Chile, deeming both boards 'unfit' on grounds of administration and governance. This decision comes following significant administrative failures and governance issues observed during recent events, including the Men's T20 World Cup 2024.
USA Cricket and Cricket Chile Under Scrutiny
- Co-Hosting Issues: USA Cricket, which co-hosted the Men's T20 World Cup 2024 alongside the West Indies, has been under scrutiny due to several reported administrative failures. The ICC incurred a substantial loss of INR 167 crore during the tournament, particularly from matches held in New York, Florida, and Dallas.
- Complaints: Issues reported included poor pitch and ground quality at Nassau Cricket Stadium, with complaints raised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
ICC Investigation and Review
- Investigation Initiation: The ICC Board confirmed the initiation of an investigation into the delivery of the Men's T20 World Cup 2024. This review will be led by directors Roger Twose, Lawson Naidoo, and Imran Khwaja (deputy chair of ICC). They will provide a detailed explanation and review to the Board later in the year.
- Official Statement: "The ICC Board confirmed that there will be a review into the delivery of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. This will be overseen by three directors, Roger Twose, Lawson Naidoo, and Imran Khwaja who will report back to the Board later in the year."
Compliance and Support Measures
- Notice Period: USA Cricket and Cricket Chile have been given 12 months to rectify their non-compliance with the ICC Membership Criteria. The ICC has stated that neither member currently has a fit-for-purpose governance and administrative structure.
- Support for Cricket Chile: The ICC Americas office will assist Cricket Chile in remedying their non-compliance issues.
- Normalisation Committee for USA Cricket: A Normalisation Committee, comprising Board and Management representatives, will oversee and monitor USA Cricket’s compliance roadmap. The ICC Board reserves the right to suspend or expel the member for continued non-compliance.
This decision underscores the ICC's commitment to maintaining high standards of administration and governance across all member boards. The notice period and subsequent investigations aim to ensure that both USA Cricket and Cricket Chile take the necessary steps to comply with ICC's rigorous criteria, thereby enhancing the overall integrity and functionality of the sport.