Jay Shah has been elected as the new Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), marking a significant moment in cricket governance. Shah, who will succeed Greg Barclay, is set to assume his new role on December 1, 2024. His election was uncontested, as no other nominations were filed against him, paving the way for a smooth transition of leadership.
At just 35 years old, Jay Shah will become the youngest individual to hold the position of ICC Chairman. His initial term will span three years, with the option to extend for an additional three years. Jay Shah, who has served as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) since 2019, will now relinquish his BCCI post to fully dedicate himself to his new global responsibilities.
The ICC confirmed that Jay Shah was the sole nominee for the position, with several nominations filed on his behalf by the 16 existing directors. According to the council’s rules, the candidate is not required to file the papers themselves.
ALSO READ: Who will replace Jay Shah if he moves to ICC? Here are the possible names
As Shah steps into his new role, he faces several immediate challenges, including the appointment of a new Independent Woman Director for the ICC, following the end of Indra Nooyi’s tenure last month. Another pressing matter is addressing Disney Star’s request for renegotiation of the $3 billion broadcast deal. Additionally, Jay Shah will need to oversee a smooth transition of power within the BCCI by identifying a suitable successor for his former position as Secretary.
Expressing his vision for cricket’s future, Shah emphasized his commitment to expanding the sport’s global reach and popularity, particularly with the upcoming inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“I am humbled by the nomination as the Chair of the International Cricket Council,” 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.”
Jay Shah also highlighted the importance of innovation in promoting cricket worldwide. “While we will build on the valuable lessons learned, we must also embrace fresh thinking and innovation to elevate the love for cricket worldwide. The inclusion of our sport in the Olympics at LA 2028 represents a significant inflection point for the growth of cricket, and I am confident that it will drive the sport forward in unprecedented ways.”
The ICC welcomed Shah’s election, stating, “Shah’s election marks a new chapter for the ICC as it seeks to expand the game’s reach and continue its evolution on the global stage.”
Shah’s leadership is expected to usher in a new era for the ICC, with a focus on innovation, global expansion, and the continued growth of cricket as a worldwide sport.
