The games have come under scrutiny because of international condemnation of Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe's policies, which opponents say have caused deteriorating economic conditions and civil unrest.

England and Australia have resisted calls from their governments to boycott their matches in Zimbabwe.

"The safety and security of players and officials in Zimbabwe is clearly an issue for some countries and this meeting is an important opportunity for the ICC to see first hand how the security arrangements for this event are proceeding," Speed said in a statement.

"The visit of the security delegation in November 2002 highlighted the importance of this plan being fully implemented and I want to ensure that the ICC is fully aware of and briefed on the steps that are being taken to protect players and officials."

Speed will be accompanied by Ali Bacher, the head of the organising committee for cricket's showpiece tournament, which is mainly being held in South Africa and starts with the opening ceremony in Cape Town on February 8.