Jay Shah, the newly-appointed International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman and former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, arrived in Prayagraj on Monday with his family to attend the Maha Kumbh 2025. The 36-year-old was warmly welcomed at the Prayagraj airport.
Highlights of Jay Shah’s Visit
- Spiritual Stops:
Before arriving in Prayagraj, Shah visited Ayodhya’s Hanumangarhi Temple on Sunday, where he donned traditional Indian attire and offered prayers. - MCC Advisory Board Role:
Shah has been appointed as a member of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) advisory board, which focuses on the development and future of global cricket. He joins 13 other founding members, including prominent names like:- Kumar Sangakkara (former Sri Lanka captain and MCC president)
- Sourav Ganguly (former India captain)
- Graeme Smith (former South Africa opener)
- Andrew Strauss (former Director of England Cricket)
- Heather Knight (England women’s captain)
- Sanjog Gupta (CEO, JioStar Sports)
- Upcoming World Cricket Connects Forum:
Shah will participate in the second World Cricket Connects forum, scheduled for June 7-8, 2025, before the World Test Championship final at Lord’s, which will be contested between Australia and South Africa.
Jay Shah’s Journey and Achievements
- ICC Leadership:
Shah assumed the role of ICC chairman on December 1, 2024, after serving as BCCI secretary. His experience in cricket administration began in 2009 with the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA). - Landmark Contributions:
- Played a key role in the development of the world’s largest cricket stadium, the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
- Led the hosting of the 2023 Cricket World Cup, which India successfully held entirely on its own for the first time.
Significance of His Role
Shah’s appointment and his inclusion in global advisory boards highlight his influence in international cricket governance. His leadership comes at a crucial time as cricket looks to expand its reach globally while maintaining competitive integrity in traditional formats.
The ICC chairman’s visit to spiritual and historic landmarks like Ayodhya and Prayagraj demonstrates a blend of professional commitment and personal devotion, resonating with the Indian ethos of balancing tradition and modernity.