The International Cricket Council (ICC) has appointed Tamim Iqbal, President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), as the chairman of its newly-formed Franchise League Committee. The committee will oversee plans for a proposed World Club T20 tournament, featuring champion teams from various franchise-based T20 leagues worldwide. Senior cricket administrators from several Full Member nations, including Dr Rudie van Vuuren (Cricket Namibia), Devajit Saikia (BCCI), Richard Gould (England and Wales Cricket Board), and Todd Greenberg (Cricket Australia), have been named to the committee.
At the same meeting, the ICC reviewed governance and membership matters involving Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Canada, and France. The ICC formally recognized the newly-elected president of the BCB as the country's representative on the ICC Board. Sri Lanka Cricket was urged to expedite the formation of an elected board, while France Cricket was placed 'on notice' for failing to meet ICC membership requirements. Conditions were outlined for the reinstatement of Cricket Canada, whose suspension remains in effect.
In addition, the ICC approved financial assistance of US$12.82 million for Cricket West Indies to support the board as it addresses ongoing financial challenges. This move underscores the ICC's commitment to supporting its member boards during difficult times.
Tamim Iqbal's appointment as chairman of the Franchise League Committee is expected to bring significant changes to the world of cricket. With his extensive experience and leadership, Iqbal is well-positioned to guide the committee in its mission to create a global T20 tournament that will showcase the best teams from around the world.
The formation of the Franchise League Committee and the proposed World Club T20 tournament represent a major step forward for the ICC in its efforts to promote and develop the game of cricket on a global scale. With Iqbal at the helm, the committee is poised to make significant strides in achieving these goals.
