ECB chiefs fighting for survival over Stanford

News that Stanford and his financial company are being investigated by America's Securities and Exchange

Commission over an $8billion investment scheme has already led to the ECB suspending discussions with the benefactor they expected to become a long-term partner in the world of cricket. ECB chairman Clarke and chief executive Collier face huge embarrassment after it became clear that the annual $20million challenge match in Antigua and a proposed quadrangular international tournament at Lord's every May are almost certainly doomed — potentially costing the game £10m a year.

But their shame is now likely to turn into a fight for survival, especially for the unpaid Clarke who has been particularly vocal in the past when defending the ECB's deal with Stanford.

One county chairman today called on Clarke to resign while privately cricket figures are also questioning the position of full-time executive Collier, who was at the forefront of negotiations with Stanford.

Clarke has admitted to a "mistake" having been made. But asked outright whether this was a resignation issue, Clarke — currently in Antigua watching England play the West Indies — said no.

Others disagree, notably Leicestershire chairman Neil Davidson, who said: "In any normal organisation the chairman's position would be untenable. Giles Clarke was the architect of this deal, not David Collier. I do think he should resign."

Hampshire boss Rod Bransgrove, another regular Clarke critic, said: "I always thought the whole association would crumble as soon as the ECB chairman election was over and Clarke was reinstated."

In fact, Clarke's re-election has still to be formally confirmed. He survived a challenge from Lord Marland, who withdrew when it became clear the result would favour the man who took office two years ago. But while the 18 first-class counties, plus the MCC were allowed to vote, all 41 members of the full ECB are required to signify their approval by Monday before the result is made official.

Realistically, however, it is unlikely to be blocked. But support for Clarke has emerged from Middlesex.

"The deal was all done with the best interests of cricket," said chairman Ian Lovett today. "They did as much due diligence as was reasonable."
Middlesex took part in last year's Super Series in Antigua as England's Twenty20 champions. "Allen Stanford honoured everything he said he would," added Lovett.

The MCC confirmed today that no tickets have been sold for the now apparently doomed quadrangular tournament which was due to be played at Lord's in late May.

Warm-up games ahead of June's Twenty20 World Cup in England may now be staged at Lord's instead.