ICC Annual Conference: Jay Shah's ICC Chairmanship Takeover on the Horizon

The upcoming ICC Annual Conference in Colombo, commencing on Friday, holds immense significance for the cricketing world. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah's potential takeover as ICC Chairman from New Zealander Greg Barclay will be a key topic of discussion.

One of the major concerns on the agenda is the substantial financial losses incurred by the ICC during the T20 World Cup games held in the United States. Reports indicate losses exceeding USD 20 million. While the AGM's nine-point agenda does not explicitly address financial details, it will be discussed as a "post-event report."

The appointment of ICC's new external auditor, ICC memberships, reports from associate members' meetings, and the presentation of ICC development awards are also on the agenda.

A crucial issue not included in the official agenda but likely to be raised under "Any Other Business" is India's decision to decline participation in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

According to an ICC source, the timing of Jay Shah's succession as ICC Chairman is a primary concern. The source stated, "It is not about how but when, as he still has one year left as BCCI secretary before his cooling-off period in Indian board starts in 2025 as per constitution."

Speculation suggests that the ICC's chairmanship term could be revised from three terms of two years each to two terms of three years, maintaining the cumulative term at six years. This would allow Shah to complete his six years as BCCI secretary and assume the ICC chairmanship in 2025 for three years during his cooling-off period in the BCCI. Subsequently, he could return in 2028 to take over as the board president.

Tags: #ICC, #AnnualConference, #JayShah, #GregBarclay, #T20WorldCup