Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is set to be named the new Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), replacing the outgoing Greg Barclay. Barclay, who has held the position since November 2020, has announced his decision not to seek a third term, paving the way for Shah to step into the role in December 2024.
Shah’s rise to the top of cricket’s global governing body is supported by major cricket boards, including those from England and Australia. With their backing, Shah is expected to secure the required majority of votes from the ICC’s 16-member voting council.
Barclay Steps Down
Greg Barclay, who was appointed as ICC Chairman in November 2020 and re-elected in 2022, has confirmed he will not stand for a third term. His tenure, marked by efforts to navigate the sport through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, will conclude at the end of November 2024. Barclay informed ICC directors, including Cricket Australia’s Chair Mike Baird, of his decision during a recent video conference. His departure has set the stage for a leadership change at the ICC, with nominations for the next chairman due by August 27, 2024.
Jay Shah’s Path to Leadership
At just 35 years old, Jay Shah is set to become the youngest chairman in ICC history. His rapid ascent in cricket administration has been marked by his role as BCCI Secretary, where he has been instrumental in shaping India’s cricketing landscape. Shah also leads the ICC’s Finance and Commercial Affairs Committee, a critical position that has further cemented his influence within the organization.
Shah’s impending elevation to ICC Chairman comes at a pivotal time. With one year left in his term as BCCI Secretary, Shah will be required to enter a mandatory three-year cooling-off period in 2025, as per the BCCI’s constitution. However, his move to the ICC could extend his influence within the BCCI for an additional four years.
A Legacy of Indian Leadership at ICC
Jay Shah will join the ranks of notable Indian cricket administrators who have previously headed the ICC. This includes Jagmohan Dalmiya, who served as ICC President from 1997 to 2000, and Shashank Manohar, who was ICC Chairman from 2015 to 2020. Shah’s appointment will mark the third time an Indian has held the position of ICC Chairman, further solidifying India’s prominence in global cricket governance.
As Shah prepares to take on this new role, he faces the challenge of steering the ICC through a dynamic and rapidly evolving cricketing world. His strong relationships with the 16 voting members of the ICC, along with his experience in managing the commercial aspects of the sport, position him well to lead the organization into its next chapter.
Shah’s leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the ICC, focusing on enhancing the global appeal of cricket and navigating the sport’s future challenges. His youth, combined with his administrative acumen, could herald a new era of innovation and growth for cricket on the world stage.
(With inputs from agencies)
