CWI CEO Johnny Grave explains why Jay Shah was 'unanimously' selected as ICC Chief

Johnny Grave, CEO of Cricket West Indies, explains the unanimous selection of Jay Shah as the new ICC Chairman, highlighting broad consensus and support for Shah's leadership within the cricketing community.

In an exclusive interview at a local Indian channel, Grave highlighted Shah’s remarkable achievements during his tenure as Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

He praised Shah for his significant contributions to cricket, noting his successful management of major events such as the 2023 ODI World Cup and the introduction of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). 

“The ICC board doesn’t want to waste too much time on internal politics. If you look at Jay’s leadership at the BCCI, it has been wonderful. He has hosted the Women’s Premier League, successfully oversaw the 50-over World Cup in India and has signed huge broadcast deals with IPL and for BCCI,” Cricket West Indies CEO Johnny Grave said.

Grave also indicated that Shah meets the ICC’s expectations for their new chairperson. They are hopeful that, during his tenure, Shah will replicate his successes with the BCCI and advance the interests of global cricket.

An anonymous board member echoed Grave’s sentiments, emphasizing Shah’s role in securing lucrative deals and his potential to drive revenue for the ICC. 

“We are talking about the Indian sub-continent rights holder, who contributes the major chunk of the revenue. We have seen Jay pull off lucrative deals for IPL and bilateral cricket. It is the need of the hour at the ICC as well,” he said.

Jay Shah's appointment as ICC Chairman marks a historic moment, as he becomes the youngest individual to hold the position. 

He officially took over from Greg Barclay on December 1, and his term will last three years, with an option for a further extension of three years. Shah was elected unopposed, with the 16 current ICC directors nominating him in accordance with the organization’s rules.