ECB planning on reforms to improve the way the game is governed

London, Mar.12 (ANI): The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chairman, Giles Clarke, has outlined a series of reforms that aim to alter the way the game is governed.

The moves represent an attempt by the ECB to get back on to the front foot in the wake of the divisive Pietersen-Moores affair and the damaging Stanford episode.

In the wake of the fallout from the Sir Allen Stanford affair that led to calls for his resignation, Clarke has promised to introduce a fit and proper persons test as part of a wide-ranging review of the sport's future.

Other reforms being thought of in the wake of the challenge posed from Culture Secretary Andy Burnham, include improved representation for women at the highest levels and independent input into a new five-year strategic plan.

According to a report in The Guardian, Burnham has challenged major sports to reassess their relationship with money and ensure more is invested in the grass roots.

In a meeting with Clarke and Collier later the same day, he raised concerns about the long-term health of the county game and the lack of a test for backers of the national team and owners of counties.

Following a board meeting earlier today, Clarke said the ECB would work far more closely with government in an attempt to tackle the issues raised and address them in its forthcoming review.

But he also placed some of the onus back on to Burnham by looking into how regulators and government might help investigate the finances and legitimacy of potential owners.

The ECB chairman said he would -discuss with Burnham "suitable arrangements for securing independent verification and input into the next five-year plan and how his department can assist in the complex financial arrangements that may be needed in examining whether people and institutions are fit and proper to be involved in the game".

ECB insiders, however, still feel they have established a good working relationship with government in recent months and argue that its progress in driving grassroots participation and increasing attendances should be recognized. (ANI)