Ex-Qantas chief named World Cup supremo

SYDNEY: The former chief of Australian airline Qantas was Wednesday appointed chairman of the organising committee for the 2015 Cricket World Cup, to be hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

James Strong, currently chairman of retailer Woolworths, will lead the board overseeing the delivery of the tournament, Cricket Australia and New Zealand Cricket said.

"Cricket is very fortunate to have attracted James Strong to lead the ICC World Cup 2015 Local Organising Committee," said Cricket Australia chairman Jack Clarke.

"James' experience of heading large multinational enterprises will assist the World Cup to be an event that will attract fans from all over the world.

"The event will leave a lasting legacy for cricket in Australia and New Zealand and promote our sport not only in Australia and New Zealand but all around the world."

Strong said he was delighted to be involved.

"Both countries have a great track record of organising major sporting events, and share a passion for cricket," he said.

"We are working to develop an exciting tournament with matches in both countries, which will capture public imagination here and throughout the cricketing world."

Copyright AFP (Agence France-Presse), 2011