Ian Chappell - file

MELBOURNE (CMC):

FORMER AUSTRALIAN captain Ian Chappell has lashed out at the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the hectic schedule in the build up to next month's Cricket World Cup (CWC) in the Caribbean.

Chappell said because of the burden of international cricket prior to the tournament, the March 11 to April 28 showpiece was likely to be won by the team comprising the fittest players.

"Will we see a spectacular Cricket World Cup unfold over the next two months in the Caribbean or will it turn out to be the "Well Cup", a trophy clinched by the team fortunate enough to have 11 men still standing?" Chappell said.

He said the sports governing body needed to determine the right balance between pre-World Cup tournaments and the time required for players to rest.

"Is it any wonder with the demanding programme of the past six months that many players are weary and injured and heaven knows how many are showing 'empty' on the competitive juices gauge," Chappell said.

Chappell, who played against West Indies in the final of the first World Cup in 1975, said while players needed to earn high salaries, they also needed to ensure their performances did not suffer as a result.

He contended that the depleted Australian team, which lost 3-0 to New Zealand to concede the Chappell/Hadlee series, was as a result of the hectic playing schedule.