DUBAI, UAE (Diya TV) — Jay Shah formally took over as the ICC’s new chair Sunday in a significant development in cricket leadership. Shah was formerly a senior cricket administrator in India and replaces Greg Barclay, who has been the ICC Chair since November 2020.
At the first address, Shah specified his key goals: this time it is about a place for cricket in Los Angeles 2028 Olympics as the crucial step toward further growth and more importantly- faster growth of women’s cricket and much more open, engaging fan culture for cricket globally.
“I am privileged to assume the role of ICC Chair and appreciate the trust and support of the ICC Directors and Member Boards,” said Shah. “It’s an exciting time for the sport as we look ahead to the LA28 Olympic Games and work to ensure cricket is more inclusive and engaging for fans everywhere.
Shah acknowledged the significance of balancing cricket’s multiple formats, from traditional Test matches to Twenty20 (T20) cricket, as the sport expands its global reach.
“We are now at a critical juncture with the coexistence of multiple formats and the requirement to accelerate the growth of the women’s game. Cricket has huge potential at a global level, and I look forward to close collaboration with the ICC team and Member countries to embrace these opportunities and take this sport to new heights,” Shah added.
Shah brings a wealth of experience in cricket administration. He started his career with the Gujarat Cricket Association in 2009 and managed the development of the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, India. In 2019, Shah became the youngest Honorary Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He was also the President of the Asian Cricket Council and chaired the ICC’s Finance and Commercial Affairs Committee.
Shah’s tenure as ICC Chair comes at a very crucial time, as cricket continues to grow in popularity in non-traditional markets, particularly through T20 competitions. His leadership will also be crucial as the ICC aims to make cricket a major presence at the Olympic Games, a significant milestone for the sport.
Shah took the time to appreciate Greg Barclay for leadership in the past four years, highlighting what has been achieved during his tenure
As the ICC chair, Shah will be entrusted with taking cricket to a much larger audience, especially through women’s cricket, and helping it navigate its Olympic debut.
