Jay Shah Takes Charge as ICC Chair, Paving the Way for Cricket’s Global Expansion

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has ushered in a transformative chapter with Jay Shah taking the helm as its new Chair. This milestone marks the beginning of an ambitious journey to elevate cricket's prominence worldwide, including a strategic focus on its inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Jay Shah, a seasoned administrator, has articulated his vision to broaden the global appeal of cricket, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. With the unwavering support of ICC Members, Shah aims to capitalize on this pivotal moment in cricket’s history to extend its reach and resonance among fans and athletes globally.

From Gujarat Cricket to Global Influence

Jay Shah’s journey in cricket administration began in 2009, climbing the ranks within the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA). His exceptional leadership and innovative approach led to his election as the youngest-ever Honorary Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2019. During his tenure, Shah orchestrated landmark achievements, including:

• Securing a record-breaking media rights deal for the Indian Premier League (IPL).
• Establishing the Women’s Premier League, creating opportunities for female cricketers.
• Launching state-of-the-art cricket infrastructure with the Centre of Excellence.
• Implementing the Test Cricket Incentive Scheme to enhance the traditional format’s appeal.

His international contributions include serving as the President of the Asian Cricket Council and Chair of the ICC Finance and Commercial Affairs Committee, roles that underscore his commitment to advancing the sport globally.

A Critical Moment for Cricket's Evolution

In his inaugural address as ICC Chair, Jay Shah highlighted the critical juncture cricket faces, balancing the coexistence of multiple formats while accelerating the women’s game’s growth. Shah expressed optimism about cricket’s inclusion in the LA28 Olympics, viewing it as an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the sport on the world 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,” Shah remarked. He also acknowledged the immense potential to engage both existing and new fans, ensuring players receive the best platforms and resources to thrive.

Acknowledgment of Leadership Legacy

Jay Shah also took a moment to recognize the achievements of his predecessor, Greg Barclay, whose leadership over the past four years saw significant milestones for the ICC. Shah expressed gratitude for Barclay’s contributions and vowed to continue building on the strong foundation laid during his tenure.

A Vision for Global Cricket Growth

As the new Chair, Shah’s strategic priorities include enhancing cricket's visibility and popularity, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring the sport evolves to meet the demands of an ever-changing global audience. He reiterated his commitment to working collaboratively with ICC Members to achieve these goals sustainably.

With Jay Shah at the helm, the ICC is poised to navigate this exciting phase of growth and transformation, promising a bright future for cricket fans and players alike.