Next ICC chief softens stance, says privileged to be part of body

Dubai, June 22 (UNI) International Cricket Council (ICC) Vice President Percy Sonn, who succeeds Ehsan Mani for the top post next month, has clarified remarks he made in a recent magazine interview and said he was privileged to be a part of the governing body.

''I am privileged to be part of such a well-run organisation like the ICC, especially at a time when cricket has never been stronger or more united,'' he said.

''That unity and strength was illustrated to me when the Board, made up of many competing interests and backgrounds, was able to decide upon the hosts for 18 events over the next eight years with barely a whimper.

''There cannot be many other sports that can boast consensus like that, despite the diversity that comes from having 96 Members. I cannot wait to assume the role of President next month,'' he added.

Mr Sonn will take over the role from the incumbent Ehsan Mani at the ICC's Annual Conference at Lord's, London, on July 7.

Earlier, in an interview with the next edition of the Cricinfo magazine, Mr Sonn admitted political bickering within the body and expressed concern at the ''overblown'' set-up in the ICC.

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