The International Cricket Council (ICC) today urged the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Lt General Tauqir Zia, to reconsider his decision to resign from the PCB and called on the President of Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf to continue to refuse to accept his resignation.

ICC President Malcolm Gray said that General Zia is a powerful advocate for Pakistan Cricket and that it is vital that there is stability at the top of the PCB at this time.

"I urge General Zia to reconsider his decision. He has the knowledge, capabilities and experience to lead Pakistan Cricket.

"The game in Pakistan is going through an enormously complex and difficult period on and off the field," said Mr Gray.

"Throughout this time General Zia has been a powerful and persuasive advocate for the cause of Pakistan Cricket. It would be a significant blow to the game if he were lost to the sport. He is the person best qualified to lead Pakistan through its current on-field problems.

"Given the issues that remain in Pakistan Cricket at this time, it is essential that there is stability in the leadership of the PCB. I hope that General Musharraf will refuse to accept the resignation in the interests of the game in Pakistan."

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