Jay Shah Unanimously Elected as ICC Chairman: A New Era Begins

Jay Shah, a dynamic force in cricket administration, has been unanimously elected as the new International Cricket Council ICC chairman; set to take over from Greg Barclay on December 1. At just 35, Shah is set to make history as the youngest ever to lead the ICC, embarking on a three-year term with the potential to extend his influence for an additional three years. His unchallenged election underscores the confidence the global cricket community has in his leadership. As Shah steps down from his role as Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which he has held since 2019, the cricketing world watches with great anticipation for the future he will shape.

Key Challenges and Priorities for Shah

The ICC announced that Jay Shah was the sole nominee for the Chair, with multiple sets of nominations submitted on his behalf by the 16 current directors, as per the rules. Shah himself didn’t need to submit the paperwork. Among his top priorities is appointing a new Independent Woman Director, a crucial role left vacant after Indra Nooyi’s tenure ended last month. He also faces the significant challenge of managing Disney Star’s request to renegotiate the $3 billion broadcast deal. Additionally, Shah must oversee a seamless transition of power at the BCCI by identifying a qualified successor for the secretary position.

Jay Shah’s Vision for Cricket’s Global Expansion

Shah is determined to elevate cricket’s global influence, especially as it prepares for its historic debut in the LA 2028 Olympics—an event he sees as a transformative milestone for the sport.

Shah said, “I am incredibly honored to be nominated as Chair of the International Cricket Council.” “My commitment is unwavering: to collaborate closely with the ICC team and our member nations to expand cricket’s global footprint. We are at a crucial crossroads, where balancing multiple formats, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and introducing our marquee events to new audiences is essential. Our mission is to make cricket more inclusive and to elevate its popularity to unprecedented levels.”

A New Era for ICC under Jay as ICC Chairman

He emphasized, “As we build on the invaluable lessons we’ve learned, it’s crucial that we also embrace new ideas and innovations to further ignite the global passion for cricket. The inclusion of our sport in the LA 2028 Olympics is a pivotal moment, poised to propel cricket’s growth in ways we’ve never seen before.”

The ICC stated, “Shah’s election heralds a new era for the ICC as it strives to broaden the game’s global reach and continue its evolution on the world stage.”