Newly appointed ICC Chairman Jay Shah visited the ICC Headquarters in Dubai for the first time. The 36-year-old, who became the youngest and fifth Indian to hold this position, expressed his commitment to taking cricket to new heights. Shah, who assumed office on December 1, described his first visit to the headquarters as 'productive and inspiring'. Former BCCI secretary Jay Shah succeeded Greg Barclay, who had held the post of ICC chairman since 2020.
Jay Shah's strong vision for cricket in his regime as ICC chairman
"While I am encouraged by what I have seen, I recognise that this is just the beginning. The hard work to elevate cricket to unprecedented heights starts now, and I am confident that together, we will deliver on this vision," Shah stated in an ICC release.
Following his meeting with ICC Board Directors and staff, Jay Shah stressed on the importance of collaboration in shaping the future of cricket.
"This visit provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with my colleagues on the ICC Board where we discussed the initial roadmap and strategies to shape the future of this incredible sport. I was equally delighted to meet with the dedicated ICC team working tirelessly behind the scenes to propel cricket forward,” he added.
Meanwhile, ICC Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja praised Shah for his ambitious vision for the future of cricket.
“On behalf of the Board I would like to welcome Jay Shah to the role and share our enthusiasm for his tenure,” Khawaja said.
“Shah’s ambition and experience will be instrumental in guiding the ICC and the sport into the future. It has been a very productive visit for everyone, and we look forward to working alongside him, the Members and ICC team in achieving success," he added.
ICC members meeting for Champions Trophy 2025 further pushed
Meanwhile, in the big turn of event, ICC has reached a consensus to organise the Champions Trophy 2025 using a hybrid model. This model will allow India to host a portion of the matches in Dubai while agreeing 'in principle' to similar arrangements for future multi-lateral events until 2027.
While Pakistan initially threatened to boycott the Champions Trophy 2025 and demanded a reciprocal hybrid model for ICC events until 2031, they have now agreed to the ICC's proposal of a hybrid model for all ICC events until 2027.
However, the ICC has rejected three key demands from the PCB. The PCB's request for additional compensation, increased revenue share from the ICC pool, and the introduction of tri-series involving India, Pakistan, and a third team have all been denied.
While ICC has reached a consensus on hybrid model for Champions Trophy 2025, PCB has to come back with their government's approval before confirming their final stance to the ICC on December 7.