Jay Shah, the name that is getting bigger and bigger, is now all set for ICC chairmanship after successfully leading the BCCI and introducing major initiatives such as the Women’s Premier League and equal match fees, making the IPL more profitable. He is now set for a big challenge as the supremo of world cricket, which comes with even more responsibility for the youngest ICC chairman. As he prepares to assume office, there are a few major changes expected that may surprise some and raise eyebrows. What are those expected changes? Here are three major decisions that Jay Shah could make as ICC chairman.
Champions Trophy venue
The significant change that many may expect, which might not come as a surprise, is the potential change of the ICC Champions Trophy venue. Reports indicate that the venue may be changed, as it is currently scheduled to be held entirely in Pakistan. However, given the current situation, it appears that Indian cricket is hesitant to travel to Pakistan due to political disturbances. With Jay Shah at the helm, there is a possibility that we may see a resolution to this issue.
WTC Final venue
After the Champions Trophy, another ICC tournament could see significant changes, the venue for the World Test Championship final. The Test mace final has been held in England for the past two cycles, with the first edition taking place at Rose Bowl, Southampton, and the next at Kia Oval, London.
India has reached both finals but has failed to win, finishing as the runner-up. There are discussions underway about a possible venue change this time. It may resemble the ODI World Cup, which was held in England from 1975 to 1983 before moving out, thanks to Jagmohan Dalmiya and NKP Salve. Now, we may see changes in the WTC final venue as well.
Women cricketers’ salary
Last but not least, although it is not particularly related to just the ICC, since Jay Shah introduced an equal match fees system in Indian cricket for both men and women, we may see some impressive changes in women’s cricket development from the ICC as well. This could include increasing ICC women’s various tournament prize money to encourage more women’s cricket in offbeat areas where the sport is not very popular. It will be really interesting to see how it goes, as this topic is relevant to other boards as well. However, as supremo, there will be a wide-open space for him to think about women’s cricket as well.