Jay Shah has been elected unopposed as the new Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC), marking a significant moment in the governance of global cricket.
Shah, who has held the position of BCCI Honorary Secretary since October 2019 and has been leading the Asian Cricket Council since January 2021, will officially take on his new role starting December 1, 2024.
Shah’s unopposed election came after the current Chair, Greg Barclay, chose not to seek a third term. With no other contenders, Shah’s leadership was widely anticipated and welcomed within the cricketing community.
In his first statement as the newly elected Chair, Shah emphasized his dedication to expanding the sport’s global influence, especially with cricket’s inclusion in the upcoming LA 2028 Olympics—a development he considers crucial for the sport’s international growth.
He expressed deep honor in being elected as the Chair of the International Cricket Council and highlighted his focus on collaborating closely with the ICC team and member nations to globalize cricket further.
Shah pointed out that the sport is at a pivotal moment where balancing multiple formats, integrating advanced technologies, and introducing marquee events to new audiences are more critical than ever. His mission is to make cricket a truly global sport, accessible and popular across all regions.
Shah also highlighted the importance of innovation and learning from past experiences to enhance cricket’s appeal. As the sport builds on valuable insights gained over the years, there is a need to embrace fresh thinking to elevate the game’s status worldwide.
The inclusion of cricket in the LA 2028 Olympics is seen as a monumental opportunity that is expected to propel the sport to new heights.
Shah’s election as the ICC Chair is expected to usher in a new era for international cricket, focusing on expanding the sport’s reach and continuing its evolution on the global stage. His leadership is poised to drive cricket forward, making it more inclusive and widely celebrated around the world.
