Cairns Clarifies "Rebel" Status With NZ Cricket

PRESS RELEASE

9 January 2008

Chris Cairns Clarifies "Rebel" Status With NZ Cricket

Following recent media reports that he has been "banned" or branded a "rebel" by New Zealand cricket, former Black Caps all-rounder Chris Cairns has sought urgent clarification of his position from NZC Chief executive Justin Vaughan.

Cairns, who retired from International and Domestic cricket in 2006, recently participated in the inaugural Indian Cricket league 20/20 competition; leading his team to the finals. Press reports in NZ and elsewhere have characterised Cairns as a "rebel" and have indicated that he is now banned from playing for NZ or in domestic competition again; a position he found strange in light of his earlier retirement in 2006. Cairns was also concerned over media comments which seemed to suggest that in taking part in the ICL he was in some way harming World or NZ cricket.

Vaughan has however now clarified NZC's position saying:-

"I have never suggested that Chris is a "rebel" and have maintained that we have no issues with him playing in the ICL league. Although New Zealand Cricket has stated its opposition to the ICL competition, we understand that Chris is a free agent and wish him all the best in his future endeavours. Certainly the decision by Chris to participate in the ICL has not damaged NZC or world cricket. We hope he would consider contributing to NZC at some stage in the future."

Chris Cairns continues to be a strong supporter of NZ cricket and is actively considering a number of projects to aid the development of the game both at home and abroad.

"I had no wish to become involved in a public row about the ICL issue, but was very concerned that my name and reputation seemed to be involved in talk of bans and rebel status. I retired from International competition 2 years ago and the ICL offered me a chance to play cricket again via the 20/20 format. I'm delighted that NZC accepts my position on this matter. "

ENDS

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