Ireland coach Phil Simmons has slammed the International Cricket Council by terming its decision to leave out its non-full members from the 2015 World Cup as "despicable".Simmons said India have won the "last real World Cup" as the next edition will be like American World Series. Simmons, a former West Indies opener, said he is afraid that the next World Cup will be like the American World Series. He said a nation will be crowned World Champions but the world did not take part. He also congratulated India on winning the last real World Cup. Simmons accused the ICC of being greedy for taking the decision to leave out Ireland, currently ranked 10th, and other Associate members from the next tournament to be held in Australia and New Zealand.According to a media release, Simmons said it is a dark day for cricket but a great day for greed and fear! Simmons addded that it is hard to find words to describe this despicable decision made by some who want to keep things among themselves and some who fear us. He continued saying "Finally – congratulations to ICC for pulling the game we love back ten years!" Ireland have been overlooked, with lower ranked Zimbabwe being allocated the final spot, the release said, adding that the decision was ratified not surprisingly by the Full Members themselves.The release added that Ireland were currently in discussions with other Associate and Affiliate members about the avenues of action left open to them following the ruling by ICC.
News On AIR | April 6, 2011 9:49 PM
Ireland coach Phil Simmons slams ICC