Jay Shah’s legacy in Indian cricket administration is still being written, but his rise to power, both domestically and internationally, has been remarkably smooth and unassuming. At the young age of 35, Shah was elected unopposed as the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), making him the youngest person to ever hold this prestigious position.
Shah’s journey into cricket administration began in 2009 at the district level with the Central Board of Cricket Ahmedabad (CBCA). He steadily climbed the ladder, becoming an executive with the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) and eventually its joint secretary in 2013. During his tenure at the GCA, Shah implemented a structured age group coaching system, ensuring players were well-prepared for senior cricket by the time they reached the Ranji level. This strategic approach yielded results, as evidenced by Gujarat’s Ranji Trophy victory in 2016-17.
Shah’s commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative environment has earned him respect across all levels of Indian cricket. He has cultivated strong relationships with players, creating an open and accessible environment where their voices are heard. This unique approach distinguishes him from his predecessors who often relied on a select few for feedback. Whether it’s Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, or promising young players like Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya, Shah has created a culture where everyone feels valued and heard. Rohit Sharma even praised Shah as one of the “three pillars” that contributed to India’s T20 World Cup triumph in the West Indies earlier this year.
Shah’s leadership has been tested during challenging times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. He spearheaded the creation of bio-secure bubbles for the IPL, implemented stringent safety protocols, and ensured the completion of tournaments despite the uncertainties surrounding the pandemic.
However, Shah’s most significant achievement may be the launch of the Women Premier League (WPL). This groundbreaking initiative offers the best pay package for women’s T20 games in the market, a bold step that sets him apart from his predecessors who never fully realized the potential of women’s cricket. Shah’s commitment to gender equality extends beyond the WPL, as he has ensured equal match fees for the Indian women’s cricket team.
Shah’s leadership style is marked by a commitment to fairness and transparency. He believes in giving deserving breaks to players, whether it’s allowing Rohit, Kohli, and Bumrah to take time off when needed, or ensuring that no deserving player is overlooked based on their performance. He has also shown a willingness to empower others, allowing chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar a free hand on matters like Kishan and Iyer’s contracts, and elevating Suryakumar Yadav as captain of the T20 team.
Under Shah’s watch, the new National Cricket Academy (NCA) has been completed, a Centre of Excellence capable of hosting multiple first-class games during the domestic season. His bold decisions, combined with his collaborative approach, have cemented his position as a visionary leader who is shaping the future of Indian cricket.
