Speed - File

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC):

The International Cricket Council's (ICC) chief executive Malcolm Speed has been forced out of his post early, following a row at the top level of the world body that governs cricket.

An ICC media statement Tuesday said Speed, scheduled to leave the post in July, would now go on paid vacation leave from next Wednesday.

"The ICC president, Ray Mali, and the chief executive officer, Malcolm Speed, have agreed that Malcolm Speed will be on paid leave from 30 April 2008 until the end of his contract term on 4 July 2008," the statement said.

"This change of plan is the result of a fundamental breakdown in the relationship between the CEO and a number of board members, including the president, over a variety of issues that include Zimbabwe."

Stance on Zimbabwe

While the release did not detail the nature of the issues, various media reports have indicated that Speed was at odds with the ICC over its stance on Zimbabwe, regarding the conduct of its board. Current ICC general manager David Richardson will serve as Speed's replacement until new chief executive Haroon Lorgat takes over in July.

Speed assumed the role of CEO in 2001 and is only the second person to have filled the post.