Zaheer Abbas for ICC president

Asian Bradman Zaheer Abbas would be sworn in as the new president of the International Cricket Council (ICC) next month, after former PCB chairman Najam Sethi withdrew his nomination for the largely ceremonial role in a bid to honour a ‘great’ of Pakistan cricket. The right-handed batsman has remained a non-controversial figure in the tumultuous world of Pakistan cricket. However, the PCB didn’t approach Majid Khan, another former captain of iconic stature, for the privileged role. Reportedly, Majid was snubbed due to his differences with some of the leading board officials.

Another former captain and a possible forerunner for the post, Ramiz Raja, wasn’t keen on joining forces with the ICC since it would have hindered his commentary stints around the world. So far, Zaheer has remained tight lipped on the scope of his role and how he would project the case of Pakistan cricket, especially the complete restoration of international cricket on the back of the hugely successful limited overs series against Zimbabwe in Lahore.

But the hope is that the veteran would use his stature and good office with cricket officials around the world to further build the goodwill earned by the PCB in recent days. The ICC underwent a policy change for the presidency of the body and was keen on roping in legendary cricketers for the charge from next year. Sethi’s withdrawal means that the process can now start 12 months before schedule, with a Pakistani great setting the ball rolling. Zaheer can also help restore the bilateral ties with the Indian cricket board, considering his popularity in the Indian cricketing fraternity. The Sialkot born has strong ties across the border, with his wife also hailing from India.

In some of his recent interviews Zaheer had stressed the importance of bilateral Test cricket amongst Asian countries. With him perched at the helm of ICC, he has a real chance of playing an active role in this regard.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 12^th,  2015.

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