Will keep Test cricket a priority for everyone: Jay Shah, new ICC chairman

Despite the growing popularity of Twenty20 cricket, Jay Shah, the newly elected chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), stated that he would do everything in his power to keep Test cricket the number one priority for all. Shah, who is only 35 years old, is the youngest person to lead the ICC. On December 1, 2024, he will begin serving as governor.

Shah was the only candidate for the position, and he was elected when incumbent Chair Greg Barclay decided not to run for a third term. Shah was the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chairman and secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

He expressed his willingness to maintain Test cricket as the most significant format in the sport in a statement released by the BCCI on Tuesday, August 27.

“While the T20 is a naturally exciting format, it is equally important that Test cricket remains a priority for everyone as it forms the bedrock of our game,” Shah stated in the statement. “We must see to it that cricketers are driven to longer format and our efforts will be channelised towards this goal,” he said.

Along with that, Shah promised to do everything in his power to improve cricket wherever. “I want to give you my word that I will do every effort to raise the bar for our profession worldwide. I am steadfastly committed to living up to your high standards as I take on this crucial responsibility and committing myself to the beautiful game of cricket,” he declared.

Jay Shah will step down from his role as BCCI secretary during the board’s annual general meeting, which is anticipated to take place in October or at the end of the following month.

Following the late Jagmohan Dalmiya, Sharad Pawar, N. Srinivasan, and Shashank Manohar, Shah was chosen to the prominent position as the fifth Indian.

We are on the cusp of a transformational era as cricket prepares to make its historic Olympic debut in 2028. This is a wake-up call for all of us participating in this amazing sport, not just a milestone. I am privileged to be leading the ICC at this exciting time in our common journey,” he said.

Along with his team, the Gujarati-born player promised to work towards the advancement of women’s cricket and cricket for the disabled.

“More funds and focus should be given to women’s cricket and cricket for people with disabilities in order to further advance the goals of the ICC. Together, we can strengthen these crucial elements of the sport and ensure that they are not only noticeable but also thriving and energetic “added Shah.

Also Read: Jay Shah is the next ICC Chairman, chosen without opposition

“I look forward to a term filled with teamwork and a mission to break down the obstacles that have impeded cricket’s advancement. Every obstacle we encounter is actually a disguised opportunity, and when we work together, we can turn hardship into victory. “United by our love of cricket and our belief in its extraordinary potential, let’s embark on this incredible journey together,” he said.