ICC approves early termination of no-result Tests

London, July 8 (UNI) In a landmark decision, the ICC has approved early termination of Test matches in case no result is possible after the completion of 75 overs.

''The Chief Executives' Committee (CEC) approved the recommendation that in a Test match where, on the last afternoon, it is clear no result is possible, play can be called off at any time once a minimum of 75 overs have been completed,'' the ICC said in a statement here.

Previous regulations only allowed for stumps to be drawn after 30 minutes of the final hour had elapsed.

The new regulation will apply with immediate effect, it added.

In another interesting development, the CEC also adopted the ICC Gender Recognition Policy enabling cricketers who have undergone gender reassignment surgery to play women's cricket at international level providing they meet the required criteria.

The adoption of such a policy follows the ICC's integration with the International Women's Cricket Council (IWCC) in 2005 and brings it in line with other international sporting organisations, including the International Olympic Committee and the International Association of Athletics Federations.

The annual conference also approved an application from Myanmar to become an Affiliate Member. This takes the total membership to 97, made up of 10 Full Members, 32 Associates and 55 Affiliates.

It also adopted the ICC's new Strategic Plan which charts the course of the ICC through to 2010.

''It has been put together following an extensive consultation process between an ICC project team, our Members and stakeholders,'' newly appointed ICC President Percy Sonn said.

''It is the organisation's roadmap for the next five years,'' he added.

Mr Sonn will hold his new office for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years.

A new Vice-President to replace him will be elected at next year's annual conference.

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