As uncertainty surrounds the Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy 2025, Jay Shah, former honorary secretary of the BCCI, took over as chairman of the ICC on Sunday.
In his first statement as ICC Chair, Shah outlined his key priorities. He plans to leverage cricket’s inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and accelerate the growth of women’s cricket.
“I am honoured to take on the role of ICC Chair and grateful for the trust placed in me. This is an exciting time for the sport as we prepare for the LA28 Olympic Games and work to make cricket more inclusive for fans worldwide,” Shah said.
Shah also stressed the importance of growing the women’s game. “We are at a critical juncture. Multiple formats exist, and we must accelerate the growth of the women’s game,” he explained.
“Cricket holds immense global potential. I look forward to working closely with the ICC team and Member countries to seize these opportunities,” Shah added.
A new chapter of global cricket begins today with Jay Shah starting his tenure as ICC Chair.
Details: https://t.co/y8RKJEvXvl pic.twitter.com/Fse4qrRS7a
— ICC (@ICC) December 1, 2024Shah’s leadership will be vital in resolving the hosting issues for the Champions Trophy.
The tournament, scheduled for Pakistan next year, has sparked a dispute between Pakistan and India. Despite Pakistan’s reassurances, the BCCI has refused to send its team to Pakistan, citing security concerns.
Sources told Geo News that the ICC is considering a “partnership formula” to resolve the deadlock. According to this plan, India will play its ICC matches, originally set for Pakistan, in Dubai, and Pakistan will play its matches, initially set for India, also in Dubai.
This solution would be implemented for three years, starting with the Champions Trophy 2025. It aims to resolve the scheduling and venue issues, ensuring India and Pakistan won’t host each other’s matches during this period.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed hope for a long-term solution a day earlier. He believes it will benefit both countries and the sport. “We will not allow one-sided decisions […] decisions should be based on equality,” Naqvi said in Dubai on Saturday.
