New Delhi: The cricketing world has erupted in celebration as Jay Shah, the Honorary Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has been unanimously elected as the new Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Jay Shah’s ascension to this prestigious position comes after the current ICC Chairman, Greg Barclay, decided not to pursue a third term, paving the way for Shah’s unopposed election. His term as ICC Chairman will officially begin on December 1, 2024.
Congratulatory Messages Pour In
Following the announcement, several prominent figures in Indian cricket extended their heartfelt congratulations to Jay Shah. Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir expressed his confidence in Shah’s leadership, saying, “Congratulations to Jai Shah bhai. I know that world cricket will grow under your extraordinary leadership.” Gambhir’s sentiment echoes the broader optimism that Shah’s appointment will bring positive changes to the global cricketing landscape.
All-rounder Hardik Pandya also shared his excitement, acknowledging Shah’s historic achievement as the youngest ICC Chairman. “Congratulations Jai bhai on becoming the youngest chairman of ICC. Will wait to see you taking cricket to new heights,” Pandya wrote, emphasizing the anticipation surrounding Shah’s tenure.
BCCI President Roger Binny, who has worked closely with Shah, highlighted Shah’s pivotal role within the BCCI and the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Binny stated, “Congratulations to Jai Shah on becoming the ICC Chairman. He has been a strong pillar as the Honorary Secretary of BCCI and President of the Asian Cricket Council.”
Jay Shah’s New Role as ICC Chairman: What to Expect in Terms of Compensation
Anil Kumble and Others Applaud Jay Shah’s Appointment
Former India captain and head coach Anil Kumble also joined the chorus of well-wishers, describing Shah’s appointment as a significant milestone in global cricket. Kumble remarked, “Jay Shah becoming the ICC chairman is a new chapter in global cricket. Congratulations and best wishes.”
Rajiv Shukla, BCCI Vice President, underscored Shah’s vision for the sport, noting, “I wish Jay Shah all the best for his new role. His goal has been to take cricket to a wider audience and to new heights.”
Jay Shah Elected ICC Chairman: A New Era in Global Cricket Administration
Jay Shah’s Vision for Cricket’s Future
At just 35 years old, Jay Shah will become the youngest ICC Chairman, a testament to his rapid rise within the cricketing administration. In a statement released by the BCCI, Shah outlined his commitment to preserving the essence of cricket while also embracing its evolution. “T20 is naturally an exciting format. But it is equally important that Test cricket remains a priority for everyone as it is the basis of our game,” Shah said.
His remarks highlight a balanced approach to cricket’s future, ensuring that while the shorter formats continue to captivate audiences, the traditional longer format, Test cricket, remains the cornerstone of the sport. “We must ensure that cricketers are attracted to the longer format and our efforts will be focused towards this goal,” Shah added, indicating a clear direction for his tenure as ICC Chairman.
Jay Shah Becomes ICC Chairman: 35-Year-Old Now Reigns Over World Cricket Unopposed
As Jay Shah prepares to take on this global role, the cricketing fraternity is filled with optimism. His leadership is expected to bring a new era of growth and development, not just for Indian cricket, but for the sport worldwide.