Shah elected International Cricket Council chief after Barclay steps aside

Jay Shah of India, aged 35, is set to take over from New Zealander Greg Barclay, aged 62, as the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) later this year, as announced by the governing body on Tuesday.

Shah, who is the son of Amit Shah, the home minister of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will become the youngest individual to hold the position of ICC chairman when he officially begins his term on December 1st.

Barclay opted not to pursue a third term, and Shah, recognized as the most influential administrator in cricket due to his role as secretary of the wealthiest cricket board, was the only candidate for the position, according to the ICC.

In addition to his role with the ICC, Shah serves as the president of the Asian Cricket Council. He expressed his dedication to expanding the reach of cricket, particularly as the sport prepares to return to the Olympic Games for the first time in 128 years at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

"We are at a pivotal moment where it is essential to ensure the harmonious existence of various formats, encourage the integration of innovative technologies, and present our premier events to new international audiences," he stated.

"Our objective is to enhance the inclusivity and popularity of cricket to unprecedented levels."

"The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics at LA 2028 marks a crucial turning point for the sport's development, and I am optimistic that it will propel cricket forward in remarkable ways."