Jay Shah, the influential General Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is emerging as a strong contender for the position of Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Shah’s tenure at the BCCI has seen India further solidify its status as the most powerful board in world cricket, and he now appears poised to take on a more global role.
Current ICC Chairman Greg Barclay announced his decision to step down from the position via a video conference, as reported by The Age. Barclay’s departure comes amidst a significant $4.46 billion dispute between the ICC and its major broadcast partner, Star.
According to reports, Shah has already secured support from key cricketing nations, including Australia and England, for his nomination as ICC Chairman. If successful, Shah is expected to lead the ICC for at least three years, starting from December 2024.
An ICC spokesperson confirmed Barclay’s decision, stating, “Greg Barclay has informed the board that he will not seek a third term and will step down when his current tenure ends in November. Directors are now required to submit nominations for the next chair by August 27, 2024. If more than one candidate is nominated, an election will be held, with the new chair’s term commencing on December 1, 2024.”
Shah’s potential appointment would make him the third Indian to hold the ICC’s top position, following in the footsteps of Jagmohan Dalmiya (1997-2000) and Sharad Pawar (2010-2012). His tenure as BCCI General Secretary is set to conclude in 2025, after which he will be required to observe a three-year cooling-off period.
To be elected as ICC Chairman, a candidate must secure at least nine out of the 16 votes from the board, equating to 51% support.
As the cricketing world anticipates this significant leadership change, Shah’s potential appointment could further consolidate India’s influence on the global stage of the sport.
