In a significant development within the International Cricket Council (ICC), Sumod Damodar, an Indian-origin cricket chief from Botswana, has emerged victorious in a tightly contested election. He was elected as an Associate Member representative to the ICC Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC), defeating Mubashshir Usmani of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a secret ballot.
The election was triggered after Usmani’s election as one of the ICC Associate Member Directors during the ICC Annual Conference 2024. According to the ICC, Usmani could not retain both roles simultaneously, necessitating a re-election for his position on the CEC. Sumod Damodar will now complete the rest of the term, which concludes at the end of the ICC Annual Conference in 2025.
Damodar’s Rise in Botswana Cricket
Sumod Damodar has played a pivotal role in developing cricket in Botswana, leading the Botswana Cricket Association. His efforts to expand the sport in non-traditional cricketing nations were recognized during the election. His triumph over Usmani, a prominent figure in UAE cricket, signals support for his vision to bolster cricketing infrastructure and opportunities in Botswana and the broader Associate cricketing community.
Damodar will now serve alongside Rashpal Bajwa of Cricket Canada and Umair Butt of the Danish Cricket Association, both elected in 2023, on the CEC. Together, they represent the interests of Associate Member nations within the ICC’s decision-making processes.
Significance of the Election
The election outcome is being hailed as an essential step toward further enhancing the voice of smaller cricketing nations within the ICC. Associate Member nations, including Botswana, Canada, and Denmark, are increasingly crucial in cricket’s global expansion. Damodar’s inclusion on the CEC is expected to bring fresh perspectives and increased focus on grassroots development, a key priority for Associate Members who often face resource constraints compared to Full Member nations.
Botswana, a rising cricketing nation, has seen steady growth in the sport under Damodar’s leadership. His election represents not only a personal achievement but a victory for Botswana cricket, which continues to build its presence on the international stage.
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ICC’s Statement on the Election
The ICC acknowledged the election results with a statement that highlighted the integrity of the voting process. “The election of Sumod Damodar underscores the ICC’s commitment to fair representation of all its member nations,” the release noted.
Damodar’s term on the CEC will involve discussions around crucial policies, such as the distribution of resources, cricket development in emerging nations, and ICC global tournaments. His influence will help shape the future direction of Associate cricket, ensuring that the needs of smaller nations are well-represented within the ICC.
What’s Next?
As Sumod Damodar prepares to assume his responsibilities, the focus now shifts to the upcoming ICC Annual Conference 2025, where his term will conclude. His work with fellow CEC members will be closely watched as the cricketing world looks toward expanding the game’s reach to new frontiers.
Botswana’s cricket community has reacted positively to the news, celebrating the election as a milestone in the country’s cricketing journey. Damodar’s success highlights the growing opportunities for Associate Members to play an active role in the governance of international cricket.
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