Jay Shah's cricket journey: From GCA roots to BCCI helm, now eyeing ICC¡¯s top spot

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah is reportedly on the brink of taking on a new and prestigious role as the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

According to media reports, Shah is set to replace the current chairman, Greg Barclay, after the latter decided not to run for a third term. Barclay reportedly informed ICC directors, including Cricket Australia's chair Mike Baird, of his decision during a video conference, noting his lack of intent to continue in the role.

Jay Shah, who is already backed by the cricket boards of England and Australia, seems to have the support needed to assume the ICC chairmanship. If this transition occurs as anticipated in November, Shah will join the ranks of notable Indian administrators who have led the ICC, including Jagmohan Dalmiya, Sharad Pawar, N Srinivasan, and Shashank Manohar.

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Reports from The Age indicate that Barclay's resignation comes "amid a $US3 billion ($4.46 billion) dispute between the governing body and its major broadcast rights holder Star." This situation might have influenced the leadership change, opening the door for Shah's potential ascension to one of cricket¡¯s most influential positions.

Jay Shah¡¯s early steps and rise in cricket administration

Born on September 22, 1988, Jay Shah has established himself as a significant figure in Indian cricket administration at a young age. Now 35, Shah¡¯s journey in the cricketing world began in 2013 when he was appointed as the joint secretary of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA). This role marked the beginning of his ascent in the administrative hierarchy.

During his tenure at the GCA, Shah played a crucial role in the development of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the world¡¯s largest cricket stadium. His efforts in this project were closely aligned with his father, Amit Shah, who was the GCA president at the time.

Shah¡¯s association with the BCCI began in 2015 when he joined the finance and marketing committees. By 2019, he had stepped down from his GCA role and was elected as the secretary of the BCCI, becoming the youngest office bearer at just 31 years old. His tenure as BCCI secretary was renewed in October 2022, affirming his continued influence in Indian cricket.

Shah's career took off earlier in 2009 when he served as an executive board member of the Central Board of Cricket, Ahmedabad, laying the groundwork for his future roles.

Landmark achievements under Jay Shah¡¯s leadership in BCCI

Jay Shah¡¯s leadership has seen the Indian cricket team achieve significant milestones since his election as BCCI secretary in October 2019. His tenure has been marked by historic victories and record-breaking developments.

One of the most notable achievements under his watch was the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL) media rights deal. The five-year broadcasting rights for the IPL were sold for a staggering INR 48,390 crore, propelling the league to the second most-valued sporting event globally in terms of per match value, just behind the National Football League (NFL).

Under Shah's guidance, the Indian cricket team reached the World Test Championship finals twice (in 2021 and 2023), advanced to the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final, clinched the Asia Cup 2023 title, and secured a spot in the ODI World Cup 2023 final. The crowning achievement of his tenure came with India winning the T20 World Cup in 2024, adding another feather to his cap.

Educational background and compensation of Jay Shah in his BCCI role

Jay Shah¡¯s educational qualifications have played a key role in his success as a cricket administrator. He completed his schooling in Gujarat and later earned a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree from Nirma University. This technical background has contributed to his analytical and strategic approach in cricket administration.

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In his role as BCCI secretary, Shah earns a significant salary reflective of the responsibilities he holds. Reports suggest that his annual salary is around INR 5 crore, with a reported net worth of INR 124 crore. This financial aspect underscores the high expectations placed on him as one of the leading figures in Indian cricket.

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