ICC in turmoil as Speed asked to go on paid leave

Dubai: Malcolm Speed, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive, has been asked to go on paid leave from April 30 until the end of his contract on July 4, 2008.

Speed, who steered the ICC through many turbulent situations, is heading towards a controversial exit after having served as the CEO since July 2001.

Former South African Test star David Richardson, who is the General Manager, has been appointed as the interim CEO till the newly elected Haroon Lorgat takes charge in July.

It is understood that the relationship between Speed and many board members had broken down over Zimbabwe's financial mismanagement.

The ICC board meeting held in Dubai cleared Zimbabwe despite the audit report being inconclusive.

Speed is understood to have insisted that Zimbabwe officials should be examined by the ethics committee.

Speed refused to address the media soon after the board meeting forcing the ICC President Ray Mali and president elect Morgan to explain the decisions on Zimbabwe.

Some board members including Board of Control for Cricket in India are also upset with Speed for accepting a letter from Indian Cricket League (ICL) seeking recognition. Speed told reporters in Mumbai that the ICC lawyers were studying the ICL's application.

According to the BCCI any tournament not recognised by the member body cannot be recognised by the ICC.