The International Cricket Council (ICC) has entered an exciting new era with Jay Shah assuming the role of its Chairman. As his tenure begins, the focus is on propelling cricket to new heights globally, with particular emphasis on the sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
A vision for growth of cricket
In his first statements as ICC Chairman, Shah highlighted the opportunity to expand the reach of cricket worldwide. He expressed a clear vision for the sport’s future, centered around the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Shah emphasized the importance of collaborating with ICC Members to capitalize on the momentum from the Games, seeing it as a major step towards cricket’s wider global appeal. His leadership aims to push for cricket’s greater inclusion and recognition on the global sporting stage.
“This is an exciting time for the sport as we build up to the LA28 Olympic Games and strive to make cricket more inclusive and popular than ever before. We also stand at a critical juncture in terms of the coexistence of multiple formats and accelerating the growth of the women’s game,” said Shah in an official statement as quoted by ICC.
A wealth of experience
Notably, Shah brings a wealth of cricket administration experience to his new role. His journey in cricket administration began in 2009 at the district and state levels, where he quickly rose to prominence within the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA). His meteoric rise continued, and in 2019, Shah became the youngest-ever Honorary Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
During his tenure at the BCCI, he was instrumental in securing key milestones, including the record-breaking IPL media rights deal, the creation of the Women’s Premier League, and the development of the state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence. Additionally, Shah played a key role in the Test Cricket Incentive Scheme, which aimed at enhancing the quality and competitiveness of the game.
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Leadership on global platforms
Shah’s influence extends beyond India, with significant roles at the international level. He has served as the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and as Chair of the ICC’s Finance and Commercial Affairs Committee. His strategic vision has made him a respected figure in global cricket circles.
A focus on inclusivity and development
As ICC Chairman, Shah is committed to making cricket more inclusive and accessible to a broader audience. In his opening remarks, he reflected on the growing importance of cricket’s presence in the LA28 Olympics, as well as its ongoing development across multiple formats. He stressed that there is enormous potential for growth, not only in terms of fan engagement but also by ensuring the best platforms and resources for cricketers globally.
“I look forward to working closely with the ICC team and the Member countries to sustainably expand the game’s reach and evolution on the global stage,” Shah added.