Jay Shah becomes youngest-ever ICC chairman, replaces Greg Barclay
Jay Shah, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, has replaced Greg Barclay to become the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). The ICC, on August 27, announced that Shah has been elected as the chairman unopposed, a role that he will assume on December 1, 2024. Notably, the 35-year-old has become the youngest-ever ICC chairman.
Humbled by the nomination: Jay Shah
"I am humbled by the nomination as the ICC chairman," Shah stated as per an ICC release. "I am committed to working closely with the ICC team and our member nations. We stand at a critical juncture where it is increasingly important to balance the coexistence of multiple formats, promote the adoption of advanced technologies, and introduce our marquee events to global markets."
Shah on cricket in 2028 Olympics
Shah, in his statement, also mentioned the Los Angeles Olympics, which will also feature cricket. "We must also embrace fresh thinking and innovation to elevate the love for cricket worldwide. The inclusion of our sport in the Olympics at LA 2028 represents a significant inflection point for the growth of cricket, and I am confident that it will drive the sport forward," added Shah.
Jay Shah becomes youngest-ever ICC chairman
Shah, who became the BCCI secretary in 2019, is tipped as a potential successor to Barclay. Also the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman since January 2021, Shah is considered one of cricket administration's most influential figures. At age 35, he has become the youngest-ever chairman of the global cricket body. Shah replaces Greg Barclay, who will step down from his position in November.
What about Shah's other roles?
As mentioned, Shah has become ICC's Independent Chair. Notably, the ICC chairman can't operate at multiple organizations, which means Shah has to leave his role as the BCCI secretary and ACC president.
