• BCCI secretary Jay Shah, has been elected unopposed as the new chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

  • Shah has become the youngest individual to hold this prestigious position in the international body.

Indian cricketing fraternity unites in congratulating Jay Shah on becoming the new ICC Chairman
Indian cricketing fraternity unites in congratulating Jay Shah on his historic ICC election on X (Image source: X)

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Jay Shah has been elected unopposed as the new chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), making history as the youngest individual to hold this prestigious position at just 35 years old. His election was announced on August 27, 2024, and he will officially take over on December 1, 2024, succeeding New Zealand’s Greg Barclay, who opted not to seek a third term. Shah, who has served as the Honorary Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) since 2019 and as the Chair of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), aims to enhance the global profile and popularity of cricket, particularly with the sport’s inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

Also READ: Jay Shah elected as the new ICC Chairman, will join office on this date

Wishes for Jay Shah pouring in from the Indian cricketing fraternity

Following the announcement of Shah’s election, numerous prominent cricketers extended their congratulations through social media, highlighting their confidence in his leadership.

Gautam Gambhir, former Indian opener and current head coach of Indian Men’s team, tweeted: “Many congrats @JayShah bhai! I know world cricket will grow tremendously under your exceptional leadership!”

Hardik Pandya, who played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup victory, expressed, “Congratulations @Jay Shah bhai on being elected as the youngest chairman of ICC. Look forward to seeing you take cricket to even greater heights. Your vision and drive will help ICC, just like it did with BCCI.”

Roger Binny, the 1983 World Cup winner and current BCCI president, praised Shah as a “strong pillar” of the BCCI.

In an official statement by BCCI, he stated, “I take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Jay Shah on his appointment as the independent chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). He has been a strong pillar as the BCCI Honorary Secretary and the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). He has been a cornerstone in ideating and implementing some of the pathbreaking initiatives in cricket. As he takes over as the ICC Chairman, I am sure his foresight and leadership will further enhance the reputation and well-being of our beloved game,” he said.

Anil Kumble, former Indian captain and head coach, remarked, “Jay Shah’s election as ICC Chair marks a new chapter in global cricket. Congratulations and best wishes for the journey ahead!”

Ravi Shastri, another former Indian captain, stated, “Congratulations to @JayShah on being elected unopposed as ICC Chairman—the youngest ever at just 35! His experience running @BCCI will undoubtedly serve him well.”

Rajeev Shukla, BCCI vice-president, also added to the celebration wishing Shah, “I would like to wish Mr. Jay Shah all the very best in his new role at the ICC. He has been a visionary and has taken great pride in making sure that the game of cricket reaches newer heights and reaches a wider audience. His forthright approach and astute leadership means the game of cricket will continue to prosper across the globe.”

Cheteshwar Pujara, veteran batter took to twitter and wrote, “Heartiest congratulations to @JayShah on being elected as the ICC Chair. Under your visionary leadership, cricket is set to touch new heights globally.”

Harbhajan Singh, former spinner, expressed confidence in Shah’s leadership, stating, “Congratulations to Secretary @BCCI Shri @Jai Shah Ji on your election, unopposed, as Chairman @ICC. Confident that the ICC will benefit from your experience of handling Indian cricket. Your leadership will guide world cricket to a new height. My best wishes.”

Ajinkya Rahane, senior batter, simply said, “Congratulations Jay bhai on your appointment as the ICC chairman.”

Anurag Thakur, former sports minister, highlighted the significance of Shah’s election, calling it “Congratulations to our BCCI Secretary, Sh. @JayShah on your new role and responsibility as the next Chairperson of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the supreme body of cricket. Your elevation as the youngest-ever cricket administrator is a moment of immense pride and celebration for all Indians, serving as a testament to India’s rise on the international stage.”

Mohammed Siraj, India pacer, wished Shah success, saying, “A massive moment. My best wishes to @Jay Shah Sir on being elected as the new ICC chairman. May you grow to greater heights and continue doing fine work for our sport. Congratulations.”

Shah’s future aspirations with ICC

In his statement after the election, Shah emphasized his commitment to working closely with the ICC and its member nations to globalize cricket further. He identified the upcoming inclusion of cricket in the Olympics as a pivotal moment for the sport’s growth and expressed optimism about driving cricket to new heights through innovative strategies and enhanced inclusivity.

Also READ: Jay Shah shares a heartfelt note marking Virat Kohli’s 16-year career in international cricket

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.