Australia to support New Zealand candidate

Sydney: Cricket Australia will back New Zealand Cricket chairman Alan Isaac for the two countries' joint nomination for the vacant ICC vice-president position.

Cricket Australia (CA) have declined to put forward a new candidate after the International Cricket Council (ICC) rejected former Australian Prime Minister John Howard's bid but the authority will support New Zealand's nominee, albeit reluctantly.

"We still have been given no official reason why a strongly credentialled candidate of Howard's qualifications was not supported," CA Chairman Jack Clarke said in a statement Friday.

Excellent alternative

"Our directors were today very strongly of the view that Howard continues to be the best candidate CA could nominate. We are not prepared to suggest another candidate.

"But given it is clear Howard will not be supported, we clearly have to consider a new approach."

Clarke insisted Isaac would be an excellent alternative to Howard.

"Alan has a strong cricket and sporting administrative background but the relevant benefit he brings to the table is his strong record as an expert practitioner and adviser in organisational governance and his business and financial acumen."