‘Test cricket remains a priority’: Jay Shah makes bold statement after being elected as new ICC president

NEW DELHI: BCCI secretary Jay Shah made a bold statement about his vision for world cricket, emphasising the importance of Test cricket after he was elected without any opposing candidates as Chairman of the ICC on tuesday.
Shah, 35, is the youngest leader of the ICC, succeeding Greg BarclayHis new contract comes at a time of major changes taking place in cricket as the sport is set to make its debut at the 2028 Olympic Games.

Shah, who has been serving as BCCI Secretary since 2019 and Asian Cricket Council Chairman since 2021, expressed his gratitude to the ICC Member Boards for their confidence in him, and said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Member Boards of ICC for the confidence they have placed in me to take on this prestigious role as President of the ICC. I want to assure you that I will do everything in my power to raise the standards of our game around the world. As I take on this crucial role, I am determined to live up to your high expectations and dedicate myself to the beautiful game of cricket.”

“As cricket is set to make its historic debut at the 2028 Olympic Games, we stand on the cusp of a transformative era. This moment is not just a milestone, it is a clarion call for all of us involved in this great sport. It is my privilege to lead the ICC at such an exciting time in our journey together,” he added.

“I would also like to work towards establishing a separate talent search programme during my tenure and look forward to your support in this programme. While T20 is a naturally exciting format, it is equally important that Test cricket remains a priority for all as it is the foundation of our sport. We need to ensure that cricketers are nurtured into the longer format and our efforts will be channelled towards this goal,” Shah stated, emphasising the need to nurture cricketers into the longer format.
Shah also outlined his plans to support women’s and disabled cricket, adding: “We must further champion the ICC’s mission by devoting more resources and attention to women’s and disabled cricket. Together we can strengthen these vital facets of the game, making them not only visible but vibrant and thriving.”
“I look forward with anticipation to a period of collective endeavour as we strive to dismantle the barriers that have impeded cricket’s progress. Every challenge we face is an opportunity in disguise, and together we will transform adversity into triumph. Let us embark on this incredible journey, hand in hand, united by our passion for cricket and our belief in its extraordinary potential,” Shah concluded.
As he prepares to lead the ICC during this crucial period, Shah’s focus on Test cricket, alongside his commitment to expanding cricket’s global footprint, points to a promising future for the sport.