ICC CEO Manu Sawhney Faced 3-Layered Probe

International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Manu Sawhney, who has been told to go on leave over an 'adverse' internal report, was probed on three counts by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC), a top prof

However, it seems the biggest reason for which Sawhney seems to be paying a price is that he allegedly sided with one of the two "groups" of member countries within the ICC. This, claimed the source, became apparent in the lead-up to the acrimonious election for the ICC's Independent Chair held in November.

"He virtually 'campaigned' for one of the groups, and backed its candidate, something that is not ethical, especially for a CEO," the source said.

Greg Barclay was eventually elected as Independent Chair, succeeding Shashank Manohar of India. Finally, a majority of employees complained about his behavior and that led to the investigation.

"His actions in the lead up to the election antagonized one group, and the joint complaint of the employees was the proverbial last straw," said the source.

It is, however, not known for how long Sawhney has been sent on leave. It is likely that the ICC might take a decision in his case at its next executive board meeting this month.

A product of the Delhi Public School (RK Puram), New Delhi, Sawhney is a mechanical engineer and MBA. He had worked for ITC Global Holdings, ESPN Software India Pvt Ltd, ESPN Star Sports, Singapore Sports Hub, and Manchester United, before joining the ICC on April 1, 2019.

"A senior executive with a strong entrepreneurial drive and proven success in leadership roles across multiple markets in identifying new business opportunities, key account management, innovative customer acquisition initiatives, developing strategic partnerships and business transformation to ensure profitable growth and value creation," says Sawhney's profile on LinkedIn.

"Recognised as an inspiring, collaborative leader with strong negotiating and influencing skills and ability to motivate and lead people in diverse cultural environments," it says. Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager (Cricket), has taken charge as acting CEO.