ECB in talks with ‘new Stanford’

The ECB are considering an offer from a wealthy benefactor to help pay for the redevelopment of several major grounds, SPIN has learned.

It is understood that talks are at an advanced stage and the individual concerned, a well-known philanthropist, is willing to make a multi-million pound donation.

The news comes at an ideal time for several clubs. A number of historic venues – Edgbaston and Old Trafford among them – are in dire need of redevelopment but are facing a struggle to raise the requisite funds in the current economic climate.

Some will be uneasy at the news. The last time an individual was seen to make an attractive offer to the ECB – Sir Allen Stanford – it ended in tears and recriminations. This time, however, it is understood that the ECB believe the individual to be of impeccable character and that he wants very little in return.