The ICC board showed strong confidence in Jay Shah by backing his candidature unanimously for the chairman role. Various factors contributed to this decision but key among them was his track record as BCCI Secretary.
Under his leadership, BCCI successfully hosted marquee events like the Women's T20 challenge and global tournaments like the 2022 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Furthermore, he negotiated lucrative television broadcast agreements for the ever-popular IPL and India's bilateral matches.
This experience in concluding important deals was seen as hugely beneficial by members amid uncertainties surrounding the existing ICC broadcast arrangement with Disney Star. There is an ongoing discussion around revising the near $3 billion commitment to adjust for changing consumer habits.
However, any reduction could endanger funding for global cricket projects. One such crucial initiative is establishing a dedicated Test match fee pool. Backed strongly by Jay Shah, this aims to introduce match payments and touring subsidies for all nations.
Yet with the current rights holding expiring in 2027, the scheme depends on a refurbished broadcast contract. Members feel Jay's negotiating acumen can sort an ideal settlement to realize this concept that boosts the game's primary format.
Another factor is Jay Shah's balanced outlook. Despite a packed calendar, as BCCI chief, he prioritized bilateral engagements benefiting members of all stature. This included infrequent tour matches for emerging sides like Zimbabwe and Afghanistan. His push to strengthen Test cricket while catering shorter formats aligns with ICC's multi-format vision.
In the current climate of upcoming sponsorship deals and Olympic cricket's debut, the board appears confident Jay Shah possesses the leadership acumen to steer the sport collectively into an exciting future phase. His unanimous nomination for the top post reinforces this belief.
