FICA slams Srinivasan's appointment

The Federation of International Cricketers' Association (FICA) has slammed the International Cricket Council (ICC) for appointing N Srinivasan, BCCI's president-in-exile, as the new chairman even before his name had been cleared by the commission probing the 2013 Indian Premier League (IPL) spot-fixing and betting scandal.

Srinivasan is one of the 13 people named by the Mudgal panel which is investigating charges of corruption during the 2013 edition of the IPL. Acting on the report, the Supreme Court of India suspended him from discharging his duties as the president of the BCCI.

FICA, which represents the players from Test playing nations except India and Pakistan, expressed disappointment over the decision. "We've seen in recent days significant changes at ICC level, which represent a new era in terms of the administration and leadership of world cricket," outgoing FICA executive chairman Paul Marsh said.

"FICA's position on this is well known. Our strong preference was for the controversy involving Mr Srinivasan in India to be resolved before the ICC made a decision on the chairmanship. While it's disappointing that this did not occur, we can't let this distract FICA from its responsibility of helping shape cricket's future," he added.

In related developments, South Africa's Tony Irish has replaced Paul Marsh as the new executive chairman of FICA. Marsh is leaving the position to take charge of the Australian Football League's Players Association. Former West Indies captain, Jimmy Adams retained his position as the president of FICA during the annual meeting at Melbourne.

Praising his successor, Marsh said Irish was a strong and respected leader, and he would be the ideal man to represent the players. "We're delighted to have someone of Tony Irish's calibre, experience and expertise to assume the role of executive chairman," said Marsh. "Tony has been a tremendous advocate for players for many years at SACA (South Africa Cricket Association) and with FICA. He is a strong and respected leader who will ensure our member associations and their players continue to be passionately represented."