Zimbabwe are back as ICC Members following a meeting between ICC Chairman Shashank Manohar, Chief Executive Manu Sawhney, Zimbabwe Cricket Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani, Zimbabwe Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry and Gerald Mlotshwa, the Chairman of the Sports and Recreation Commission.
Zimbabwe are now eligible to take their place in the ICC Men's U19 Cricket World Cup in January and the ICC Super League that begins later in 2020. Zimbabwe were originally suspended in July 2019, following government interference in the running of Zimbabwe Cricket.
"I would like to thank the Zimbabwe Sports Minister for her commitment to the reinstatement of Zimbabwe Cricket," Manohar said. "Her desire to work in support of Zimbabwe Cricket was clear and she has unconditionally complied with the conditions set down by the ICC Board. Funding to Zimbabwe Cricket will continue to be on a controlled basis as part of a collective effort behind getting the game in Zimbabwe back on an even keel."
Nepal have also been added as ICC Members, although on a conditional basis. They were suspended in 2016 for breach of ICC regulations that prohibit government interference while also requiring 'free and fair elections'. Following the election of a 17-member Central Working Committee for the Cricket Association of Nepal earlier this month, ICC readmitted the Nepalese board.
"Given the progress made in Nepal, a transition plan will now be developed for the Cricket Association of Nepal to support full compliance with Associate Membership criteria, which will also involve controlled funding," Manohar added.
more to follow...