ICC suspends Zimbabwe Cricket over 'political interference'
In an unfortunate event, Zimbabwe Cricket has been suspended by the ICC with immediate effect. The decision was taken in a meeting in London. This comes after the Full Member nation had failed to prevent their government's intervention in the administration of sport. This comes as a huge blow for Zimbabwe players who have been left out in the cold.
ICC issues statement as Zimbabwe fails to fulfil obligation
"The ICC Board unanimously decided that the Full Member (Zimbabwe) had failed to fulfil their obligation to provide a process for free and democratic elections and to ensure that there is no government interference in its administration for cricket," an ICC statement read.
ICC has unanimously decided to freeze funding
The ongoing interference by the government forced the board to take this decision. It was discussed at the ICC Annual Conference. The ICC has unanimously decided to freeze funding to the national governing body and ban the side from international events until the suspension is lifted. This has dampened Zimbabwe's hopes of participating in the men's World T20 Qualifiers.
'We must keep our sport free from political interference'
"We do not take the decision to suspend a member lightly, but we must keep our sport free from political interference. What has happened in Zimbabwe is a serious breach of the ICC constitution and we cannot allow it," said ICC chairman Shashank Manohar.
The reason behind the menace
Earlier, Zimbabwe's Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) had suspended Zimbabwe Cricket in June 2019 and installed temporary leadership. This saw the national cricket board be on a collision course with the ICC. Meanwhile, the government-run commission alleged corruption in the administration and acted accordingly by removing acting managing director Givemore Makoni. This saw the ICC term the same as their government's interference.
SRC was forced to act against Zimbabwe Cricket
The SRC had stated that it was forced to act against Zimbabwe Cricket. "Certain of its office bearers, past and present, have been the subject matter of allegations involving fraud exchange control violations and other acts of corruption and criminality related to the monies and assets of Zimbabwe Cricket and the International Cricket Council," a release issued by the SRC stated.
What does Zimbabwe Cricket need to do?
Zimbabwe's cricket officials need to be reinstated within three months after which the ICC will review the suspension in October 2019. The ICC has a board meeting then. As for now, it is a tricky road ahead.
Zimbabwe players unhappy as their future hangs in balance
Some of the Zimbabwe cricketers are in shock and they expressed their unhappiness via social media. Players like Sikandar Raza and former captain Brendan Taylor voiced their displeasure over this decision. Raza highlighted that the ICC's decision will have far-reaching implications for a number of families. Another Zimbabwe player Solomon Mire announced his retirement via Facebook.
