MacLaurin the Moderniser Resigns

Lord MacLaurin has decided to stand down as chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board, it was announced today.

In his six years as chairman, MacLaurin has overseen huge changes in the domestic game - in particular the introduction of a two-division county championship, central contracts for England players and the setting up of a national Academy.

"It's been an immense privilege and honour to serve as chairman of the ECB and I believe we have achieved much in the past six years," said MacLaurin, who is also chairman of Vodafone and NatWest.

"However, after giving the matter a great deal of thought, I have concluded that I no longer have the necessary time to devote to this very important role.

"I have many other interests and my work for Vodafone is increasingly time-consuming and has to take priority. I wish my successor the best of luck and stand ready to help cricket in whatever way I can in the future."

Tim Lamb, the ECB's chief executive, gave MacLaurin much of the credit for England's rise back up the Test rankings.

"Ian has made a huge contribution to cricket and he can feel justifiably proud of the achievements of the ECB," Lamb said.

"I fully understand the reasons for his decision and there is no doubt that cricket in England and Wales is in a much stronger position than when he took office. I look forward to working with the new chairman for the benefit of the whole game."

MacLaurin's decision has left the way open for a battle between Surrey chairman Mike Soper, David Morgan, the chairman of Glamorgan, and possibly former MCC president Tony Lewis.

Only Soper has announced intention to challenge for the post and candidatures do not have to be announced until August 6, with the closing date August 27.

Assuming there is more than one candidate, ballot papers will go out to the counties on August 29 with the result being announced on September 13.