Akram warns cricket administrators to beware of 'damaging split' as ICC approves revamp plan

Pakistani fast bowling legend Wasim Akram has warned cricket administrators that the game could not afford a damaging split, even as the International Cricket Council (ICC) approved of the plan to give the sport's most financially powerful nations - India, England and Australia - a greater say in running the world game.

South Africa, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have strongly opposed the idea and Akram, Pakistan's all time leading Test wicket-taker with 414, urged the administrators to work for the unity of the game.

According to News.com.au, Akram said that they could not afford divisions as the cricket world is very small, adding that if there are any reservations from a few countries, then they should be removed and no country should be left isolated.

Stating that national boards should not be victimised for standing up for their rights at the ICC, Akram also urged the Indian board, which produces 80 per cent of world cricket's wealth, to act as the responsible 'older brother', although he advised Pakistan to raise their game on the field to be taken seriously off it.