The inevitable has happened! Once BCCI’s Secretary, Jay Shah has become the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Greg Barclay, who was at the helm since November 2020, didn’t extend his tenure to a third term. And next in line was Jay Shah, who now leaves behind the post of BCCI Secretary. The 35-year-old will take hold of the position from December 1.
Jay Shah ‘unanimously’ appointed as ICC Chairman
According to recent reports, Shah enjoyed overwhelming support from the ICC board, with 16 out of 15 members backing his candidacy. This level of support suggested that his election to the ICC chairmanship may be a mere formality. The nomination process concluded on August 27, setting the stage for a potential changing of the guard in international cricket administration.
Shah’s impressive work at BCCI
Shah’s rise to the ICC chairmanship goes to show his impressive work at the BCCI. Ever since becoming BCCI Secretary in 2019, he has been instrumental in implementing several key reforms and initiatives that have enhanced the financial stability and popularity of Indian cricket. Take example the launch of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), which has instantly become a major tournament for women’s cricket.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has gone onto unprecedented heights, easily becoming one of the most viewed sports league around the globe. Not to forget, the pay parity between men’s and women’s cricket and a boost in wages of domestic cricketers.
Jay Shah humbled to take ICC reigns
“I am humbled by the nomination as the Chair of the International Cricket Council,” Jay Shah stated. “I am committed to working closely with the ICC team and our member nations to further globalize cricket. We stand at a critical juncture where it is increasingly important to balance the coexistence of multiple formats, promote the adoption of advanced technologies, and introduce our marquee events to new global markets. Our goal is to make cricket more inclusive and popular than ever before.” He was the sole nominee of the chairmanship role and thus appointed the prestigious role unopposed.
