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On Tuesday, a significant milestone was achieved in the world of cricket as Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, ascended to the position of ICC Chairman. Elected unopposed, Shah’s appointment marks a watershed moment for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), solidifying its status as a cricketing superpower.
BCCI’s dominance reaches new heights in world cricket
The BCCI’s influence over the ICC has been steadily growing, but Shah’s appointment is poised to elevate it to unprecedented levels. While Cricket Australia and the England Cricket Board have traditionally held significant sway, the BCCI is now expected to shape the ICC’s administrative and financial decisions.
Implications for India-Pakistan cricket relations
The strained political relationship between India and Pakistan is likely to cast a long shadow over Shah’s tenure. The PCB’s aspirations to host the Champions Trophy entirely in Pakistan could face challenges due to Shah’s close ties to the Indian government. It’s conceivable that Shah might play a pivotal role in ensuring that some matches of the tournament are relocated outside of Pakistan.
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Government influence on cricket diplomacy
Shah’s familial connection to India’s Home Minister, Amit Shah, underscores the deep intertwining of politics and cricket in the country. The Indian government’s stance on touring Pakistan is likely to remain firm, and it’s highly improbable that the Indian Men’s team will be allowed to visit the neighbouring country for the Champions Trophy.
A hybrid model for the Champions Trophy
Given the Indian government’s stance, the ICC may now be inclined to accommodate India’s request for a hybrid model. This could involve a portion of the Champions Trophy matches being held outside of Pakistan, potentially in neutral venues.
Champions Trophy 2025: The schedule takes shape
The PCB has unveiled the schedule for the Champions Trophy, which has received ICC approval. The tournament is set to kick off on February 19, 2025, with a clash between New Zealand and Pakistan.
As Shah assumes the reins of the ICC, the cricketing world eagerly awaits to see how his leadership will shape the future of the sport. His appointment marks a new era for the ICC, one that is likely to be dominated by the BCCI and influenced by the complex geopolitical landscape of the subcontinent.
