Surrey chief to challenge MacLaurin

Soper believes he can build on MacLaurin's work

Surrey chairman Mike Soper plans to challenge Lord MacLaurin for the post of chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board, according to a newspaper report.

MacLaurin has been unopposed since taking up the position in 1997 but has yet to confirm whether he will seek re-election at the end of this year.

Soper was quoted as saying in Thursday's Daily Mail: "Whatever he plans to do, I will be standing for the post."

Before Soper took charge at the Oval in 1995 Surrey had not won a trophy for 14 years but have now picked up six in the past six seasons, including two county championships.

Maclaurin might not even stand

On top of that financial losses have been turned around and a new £20m redevelopment of the Oval will begin next year.

"I love cricket and feel that, with the experience I have gained at Surrey in recent years, I could help revitalise the sport in this country," added Soper.

The 56-year-old retired businessman is said to be a strong advocate of expanding central contracts for England players.

It is thought that MacLaurin might decide not to stand again as his enthusiasm for the job may have diminished - a legacy of his commitments outside cricket and also a frustration at having to consult the counties on major decisions.