ICL not in best interest of New Zealand Cricket: NZ board chief

Christchurch, Aug 24 (UNI) New Zealand Test captain Stephen Fleming should not ''malign'' his glorious career by joining Indian Cricket League, asserts New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive Justin Vaughan.

Vaughan reportedly contacted the 34-year-old left handed batsman in England to give him a friendly advice, as media reports were suggesting a possible link up of the latter with India's Essel Group promoted 'unofficial' venture.

''I just said to him this is not in the best interest of New Zealand Cricket,'' Vaughan was quoted as saying by 'The Dominion Post'.

''I believe a player of his stature and whose legacy is so magnificent deserves better ways.

''I've spoken more as a friend, as a friend who happens to be the chief executive of New Zealand Cricket,'' he added.

Fleming is the most successful Test captain for New Zealand with 28 victories under his belt. He led his team to series wins against India, England, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.

New Zealand Cricket has still not given its official stand on ICL while the cricket boards of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have warned players from their respective countries not to join the 'rebel' league.

''The New Zealand Cricket board needs to come up with a concrete policy on how to approach this,'' Vaughan said.

''Obviously it is an unsanctioned and unofficial tournament so that is fully clear, but we need to have a policy to work with.'' UNI