Alan Isaac takes over as ICC president

Alan Isaac, the former chairman of New Zealand Cricket, has taken over as ICC president for a two-year term, succeeding Sharad Pawar. In another expected top-level change, former South Africa wicketkeeper Dave Richardson has been confirmed as the ICC's chief executive, taking over from Haroon Lorgat.

Isaac is the ICC's eighth president, and will be the last to hold the post in its current shape as it will become a ceremonial role once he steps down in 2014. Over the past two years, Isaac has been the ICC's vice-president, a position that the body plans to abolish due to its fourth constitutional amendment since 1996.

Isaac has not played top-flight cricket, but represented Wellington in the age-group levels and was captain of its second team. He was a member of New Zealand Cricket's board for 18 years and became its chairman in 2008. New Zealand's golf and rugby boards also feature on his resume, which is dominated by his 35-year career with auditing firm KPMG.

"I recognise that there is, of course, much hard work and much progress needed if we are to maintain the game's current healthy state," Isaac said. "I believe that the challenges ahead are no less daunting than those we have faced in the last two years if we are to maintain the vibrancy and viability of the three formats of the sport."

Richardson, who played 42 Tests for South Africa and was ICC's general manager of cricket for the last 10 years, also said he wanted to continue the work of his predecessor. "It is a real honour to be confirmed as the ICC Chief Executive and I want to pay tribute to Haroon Lorgat," he said. "I have learnt much in the last four years and I inherit a game in great health with much to be optimistic about. I look forward to building on that and tackling the challenges ahead." Richardson has become the first former Test cricketer to take over the role of the CEO, which has been held by Malcolm Speed and Lorgat.