Patel has been approached to succeed Australia’s Malcolm Speed, who will step down in June, after seven years in office.
ICC president, Ray Mali, said: "We are delighted Imtiaz is the board's choice for the post of next ICC chief executive. I have no doubt that if he accepts the position he will do a great job."
Patel was among six candidates shortlisted for the job from a list of 15 chosen by the ICC’s consultants. His initial contract will be for a term of three years.
