Jay Shah has been elected unopposed as the new chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Set to take office on December 1, 2024, Shah’s election marks a significant moment in the sport’s governance, as he will become the youngest individual to lead the ICC at just 35 years old. He succeeds Greg Barclay, who opted not to seek a third term, paving the way for Shah’s ascension.

Currently serving as the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Shah brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the role. He has expressed a strong commitment to expanding cricket’s global footprint, particularly with the sport’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Shah views this opportunity as a pivotal moment for cricket, aiming to attract new fans and participants from diverse backgrounds.

His vision includes a focus on balancing various formats of the game, ensuring that both traditional formats like Test cricket and shorter formats like T20 continue to thrive. He is also keen on promoting technological advancements to enhance the viewing experience, making cricket more appealing to younger audiences.

Shah’s election is particularly significant for Indian cricket, as he becomes the fifth Indian to hold this prestigious position, following in the footsteps of influential figures like Jagmohan Dalmiya and Sharad Pawar. His previous experience as chair of the ICC’s Finance and Commercial Affairs subcommittee highlights his deep understanding of cricket administration and finance, which will be invaluable in his new role.

As he prepares to take on this new challenge, Shah’s leadership is expected to usher in a new era for the ICC. His focus on inclusivity and accessibility aims to boost cricket’s profile on the global stage, ensuring that the sport continues to grow and adapt in an ever-changing landscape. With his ambitious plans and clear vision, fans of the sport are expecting Jay Shah to make a lasting impact on the future of cricket worldwide.