Jay Shah, the newly elected Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), represents a new era of leadership in global cricket governance. His journey from the corridors of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) to the pinnacle of international cricket administration is a testament to his dedication, strategic vision, and deep-rooted passion for the sport.
Election as ICC Chairman
Jay Shah’s ascent to the role of ICC Chairman marks a significant milestone in his career. Currently serving as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), Shah emerged as the sole nominee for the ICC Chairman position. Set to succeed Greg Barclay, Shah will officially assume office on December 1, 2024. In his acceptance statement, he expressed gratitude for the nomination and outlined his vision for prioritizing Test cricket alongside the dynamic T20 format, while also embracing innovation as cricket prepares for its inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympics.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 22, 1988, to Sonal and Amit Shah, Jay Shah spent his formative years in Gujarat. He completed his schooling locally before pursuing a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree from Nirma University in Ahmedabad. His academic foundation provided him with the analytical skills and discipline that would later define his approach to cricket administration. Jay Shah is happily married to Rishita Patel, and together they are proud parents to two daughters.
Career Trajectory
Jay Shah’s career in cricket administration commenced in 2009 when he became an Executive Board Member of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA). By 2013, he had ascended to the role of Joint Secretary of the GCA, where he played a pivotal role in overseeing the construction of the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. His tenure at GCA was marked by innovative initiatives and a strong focus on infrastructural development.
In 2015, Jay Shah’s influence expanded as he joined the finance and marketing committees of the BCCI, laying the groundwork for strategic financial planning and revenue generation. His visionary leadership and astute management skills were recognized when he was elected as the youngest Secretary of the BCCI in 2019. Under his stewardship, the Indian Premier League (IPL) attained unprecedented heights, solidifying its position as the most lucrative cricket league globally.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Jay Shah’s entrepreneurial acumen extends beyond cricket administration. His estimated net worth stands at Rs 124 crore, a reflection of his earnings from cricket-related roles and substantial investments in diverse business ventures. Shah serves as a director at Temple Enterprise and holds a majority stake in Kusum Finserve, showcasing his adeptness at navigating both corporate and sporting domains.
Family and Personal Life
Jay Shah’s personal life is anchored by his strong familial ties. Born into a family where public service and leadership are paramount, he draws inspiration from his father, Amit Shah, a prominent Indian politician affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His marriage to Rishita Patel in February 2015 was a joyous occasion attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries, underscoring the couple’s deep-rooted connections within Gujarat’s socio-political landscape.
Compensation and Responsibilities
In his role as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Jay Shah holds an honorary position and does not receive a regular salary, similar to the BCCI president, vice president, and treasurer, as reported by myKhel. Instead, their compensation comes in the form of allowances and reimbursements.
For international cricket meetings or tours, Shah receives approximately Rs 84,000 ($1,000) per day. Meetings within India merit a daily allowance of Rs 40,000, with Shah traveling in business class for these engagements. Additionally, he is entitled to Rs 30,000 daily for work-related trips within India that do not involve formal meetings. The BCCI covers both his domestic and international accommodations, often booking luxury hotel suites for his stays.
Jay Shah’s transition to ICC Chairman will not significantly alter his compensation structure. Like the BCCI, the ICC does not provide a fixed salary to its high-ranking officials. Instead, they receive various allowances and benefits tied to their roles, ensuring they can focus on their responsibilities without financial concerns, according to myKhel. While the specifics of these payments by the ICC have not been publicly disclosed, officials such as the chairman receive compensation for attending meetings and fulfilling other duties, facilitating their commitment to advancing cricket’s global interests, as detailed by the publication.
