Mumbai: In a significant development for cricket, Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has been elected unopposed as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Shah, who has served as the BCCI Honorary Secretary since October 2019 and Chair of the Asian Cricket Council since January 2021, will assume this prestigious role on December 1, 2024.
At just 35 years old, Shah is set to become the youngest person to lead the global cricket governing body. His election comes after current Chair Greg Barclay decided not to seek a third term. Shah’s vision extends beyond administrative duties; he aims to advance cricket’s global reach and popularity. Notably, cricket’s inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympics presents a pivotal opportunity for the sport’s growth, and Shah is committed to making cricket more inclusive and popular than ever.
In his statement, Shah expressed humility and determination: “I am committed to working closely with the ICC team and our member nations to further globalize cricket. Our goal is to embrace fresh thinking, innovation, and advanced technologies while introducing marquee events to new global markets. The Olympics in 2028 will be a game-changer, driving cricket forward in unprecedented ways.”
This election marks a new chapter for the ICC, emphasizing its commitment to expanding the game’s reach and evolving on the global stage. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await Shah’s leadership and the exciting prospects ahead.
