Jay Shah has made history by being elected as the next ICC Chairman, taking over from December 1, 2024. At just 35, he becomes the youngest individual to hold this prestigious position, marking a significant milestone in both Indian and global cricket. In this post, we’ll explore Jay Shah’s background, the ICC chairman election process, his roles and responsibilities, salary details, and India’s influence in the ICC.
Jay Shah’s Journey to ICC Chairman
Jay Shah, the son of Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, has been a prominent figure in Indian cricket administration. He has served as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) since 2019 and has played a crucial role in shaping India’s cricketing strategies. His leadership was instrumental in organizing the IPL during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing his ability to manage large-scale events effectively.
The ICC Chairman Election Process
The election process for the ICC Chairman is a closely monitored event. The chairman is elected by the ICC Board, consisting of 16 members representing the Full Members, Associate Members, and Independent Directors. Each member has one vote, and a candidate needs a simple majority to win. The election process is typically held every two years, and the chairman can be re-elected for subsequent terms.
Roles and Responsibilities of the ICC Chairman
The ICC Chairman holds a vital role in global cricket administration. Some of the key responsibilities include:
- Strategic Leadership: Providing direction and leadership to the ICC Board and its committees.
- Representation: Representing the ICC in global forums and ensuring the organization’s interests are safeguarded.
- Decision-Making: Leading the decision-making process on significant cricketing matters, including tournament scheduling, rule changes, and financial distribution.
- Collaboration: Working closely with cricket boards from member nations to promote the sport globally.
- Conflict Resolution: Mediating disputes between member boards and ensuring the ICC’s decisions are implemented smoothly.
Salary and Perks of the ICC Chairman
The ICC Chairman’s role is not just prestigious but also well-compensated. While the exact salary is not publicly disclosed, it is believed to be in the range of ₹4 crore to ₹8 crore annually, depending on the individual’s previous experience and the terms negotiated. In addition to the salary, the chairman enjoys perks such as travel allowances, accommodation, and other benefits typical of a high-profile position.
List of ICC Chairmen and Their Countries
- Colin Cowdrey (1989-1993) – England
- Clyde Walcott (1993-1995) – West Indies
- Jagmohan Dalmiya (1997-2000) – India
- Malcolm Gray (2000-2003) – Australia
- Ehsan Mani (2003-2006) – Pakistan
- Percy Sonn (2006-2007) – South Africa
- Ray Mali (2007-2008) – South Africa
- David Morgan (2008-2010) – England
- Sharad Pawar (2010-2012) – India
- Alan Isaac (2012-2014) – New Zealand
- N. Srinivasan (2014-2015) – India
- Shashank Manohar (2015-2020) – India
- Greg Barclay (2020-2024) – New Zealand
Countries with Most ICC Chairmen
- India: 5 Chairmen (Jagmohan Dalmiya, Sharad Pawar, N. Srinivasan, Shashank Manohar, Jay Shah)
- England: 2 Chairmen (Colin Cowdrey, David Morgan)
- South Africa: 2 Chairmen (Percy Sonn, Ray Mali)
- New Zealand: 2 Chairmen (Alan Isaac, Greg Barclay)
- West Indies, Australia, Pakistan: 1 Chairman each
India stands out with the most representatives, reflecting its growing influence in world cricket.
Conclusion
Jay Shah’s election as ICC Chairman is a testament to his leadership skills and the growing influence of Indian cricket on the global stage. As he steps into this role, the cricketing world will be keenly watching how he navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
