All-rounder Hardik Pandya, BCCI president Roger Binny, and head coach of India Gautam Gambhir led a lengthy list of jubilant cricketers in praising Jay Shah, who was chosen as the ICC Chairman on Tuesday without any opposition.
At the age of 35, BCCI secretary Shah became the youngest person to hold the highest position in international cricket administration when he was elected without opposition to lead the ICC. The BCCI wrote on its official ‘X’, formerly twitter handle, “Congratulations to BCCI Honorary Secretary Mr. Jay Shah for being elected as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council without opposition.”
After Rahul Dravid stepped down as head coach, Gambhir tweeted: “Many congrats @JayShah bhai! I’m confident that under your outstanding direction, cricket will flourish globally.”
Pandya, who was crucial to India’s victory in the most recent T20 World Cup, wrote: “@Jay Shah bhai, congratulations on your election as the youngest chairman of the ICC.
“I’m excited to watch you succeed even more at cricket. Your vision and determination will benefit ICC, as they did BCCI.”
The 1983 World Cup winner Binny considered Shah to be a “strong pillar” of the BCCI.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Jay Shah on his appointment as the independent chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). He has been a strong pillar as the BCCI Honorary Secretary and the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
“He has been a cornerstone in ideating and implementing some of the pathbreaking initiatives in cricket. As he takes over as the ICC Chairman, I am sure his foresight and leadership will further enhance the reputation and well-being of our beloved game,” he said.
Anil Kumble, the former Indian captain and head coach, stated: “The election of Jay Shah as the ICC Chair ushers in a new era in international cricket. Best wishes and congratulations on your next voyage!”
“I would like to wish Mr. Jay Shah all the very best in his new role at the ICC,” BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla continued. Being a visionary, he has taken great pride in ensuring that cricket achieves new heights and becomes more widely known. Because of his direct attitude and wise guidance, cricket will keep growing over the world.”
Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara wrote in his ‘X’ handle: “Heartiest congratulations to @JayShah on being elected as the ICC Chair. Under your visionary leadership, cricket is set to touch new heights globally.”
Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh too hailed Shah’s appointment.
“Congratulations to Secretary @BCCI Shri @Jai Shah Ji on your election, unopposed, as Chairman @ICC. Confident that the ICC will benefit from your experience of handling Indian cricket. Your leadership will guide world cricket to a new height. My best wishes.”
Senior batter Ajinkya Rahane said: “Congratulations Jay bhai on your appointment as the ICC chairman.”
Former sports minister and BCCI administrator Anurag Thakur too congratulated Shah on his new role.
“Congratulations to our BCCI Secretary, Sh. @JayShah on your new role and responsibility as the next Chairperson of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the supreme body of cricket.
“Your elevation as the youngest-ever cricket administrator is a moment of immense pride and celebration for all Indians, serving as a testament to India’s rise on the international stage,” he said.
