The Governance of cricket should be streamlined, according to the First Class Forum (FCF) - the 18 First Class Counties and the MCC.

At an informal meeting held yesterday and today (Wednesday), the FCF agreed that the England and Wales Cricket Board's Management Board should have more power.

The Chairmen and Chief Executives from the Counties will receive a more detailed proposal on how the changes in governance can be made at a formal meeting of the FCF in December.

Lord MacLaurin, Chairman of the ECB and The Management Board, said: "I am delighted that the Counties have recognized the need for us to invest more power in The Management Board. It is another example of the progress cricket is making in creating a sound, effective and accountable administration responsible for the game at all levels."

For further information contact:

Andrew Walpole, ECB Media Relations Manager - 0171 4321200/0385527102