Jay Shah of India was voted unanimously on Tuesday to succeed Greg Barclay as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). He will take office in December of this year. On December 1, 2024, Shah—who has been the Chair of the Asian Cricket Council since January 2021 and the Honorary Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) since October 2019—will take on this esteemed position. Shah was the only candidate for the chairperson following the decision of current Chair Barclay not to pursue a third term.
“Our objective is to increase cricket’s appeal and inclusivity beyond all previous levels” expressed Jay Shah
Following his election, Shah declared his intention to expand cricket’s appeal on a global scale, especially in light of the sport’s impending inclusion in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, which he sees as a critical window of opportunity for the game’s development.
In a statement, Shah said, “I am humbled by the nomination as the Chair of the International Cricket Council.”
“I pledge to collaborate closely with the ICC team and our member countries to further expand cricket’s worldwide reach. At this pivotal moment, it is more crucial than ever to encourage the adoption of cutting-edge technology, strike a balance between the coexistence of many forms, and expose our major events to new international markets. Our objective is to increase cricket’s appeal and inclusivity beyond all previous levels.”
“We will build on the valuable lessons learned, but we also need to embrace fresh thinking and innovation to elevate the love for cricket worldwide,” said Shah, who will turn 36 next month. Cricket’s development has reached a critical turning point with its participation in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, and I have no doubt that this will propel the game ahead in previously unheard-of ways.
With Shah’s election, the ICC embarks on a new phase in its efforts to broaden the game’s appeal and maintain its advancement on the international scene. He is the fifth Indian to hold a prominent post at the International Cricket Council.