The International Cricket Council have delayed a decision on whether Zimbabwe should be expelled from the top level of the game.

The African nation's future cricketing status was discussed at length on the second day of the ICC's board meeting in Dubai today but the matter has been adjourned until Friday.

Zimbabwe was placed on the agenda for this week's meetings following the decision of Cricket South Africa - in reaction to the political situation in the country - to sever their bilateral cricketing links with their neighbours.

The England and Wales Cricket Board followed suit by cancelling Zimbabwe's tour to England next year, a decision which was endorsed by the British Government.

Yet, at least seven of the 10 members of the ICC board would need to support Zimbabwe's expulsion in order for their full member status to be revoked.

If India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka back them, as expected, the proposal would be defeated.

That would throw next summer's World Twenty20 tournament, scheduled to be held in England, into chaos.

With the Government unwilling to welcome Zimbabwe to England, an alternative venue would have to be found even though many arrangements have already been made and some tickets sold.

The ICC board are due to reconvene at 6am BST on Friday morning.

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