In a significant update, Jay Shah, who serves as the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has been chosen to continue as the president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) for a third time in a row. The decision was made during the ACC Annual General Meeting held in Bali, where Shah’s extension was proposed by Shammi Silva, the president of Sri Lanka Cricket, and unanimously supported by all ACC members.
Shah initially assumed the role in January 2021, succeeding Nazmul Hassan of the Bangladesh Cricket Board. The extension marks a historic achievement as Shah becomes the first person to secure two consecutive terms as ACC president, breaking new ground in the leadership of the continental body.
Under Shah’s stewardship, the ACC has achieved notable success, with the organization successfully hosting the Asia Cup in T20 format in 2022 and ODI format in 2023. His commitment to the all-round development of cricket in the region, especially in areas where the sport is still in its early stages, has garnered trust and support from ACC members.
Shah expressed his gratitude and emphasized the ACC’s dedication to nurturing cricket across Asia. “I am grateful to the ACC Board for their continued trust. We must remain committed to ensuring the all-round development of the sport, with a special focus on regions where it is still in its infancy. The ACC is committed to nurturing cricket across Asia,” Shah stated in a release.
Shammi Silva, the president of Sri Lanka Cricket, acknowledged Shah’s pivotal role in unearthing and promoting new talent in cricketing powerhouses like Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Pankaj Khimji, chairman of Oman Cricket and vice-president of the ACC, credited Shah for the significant transformation that has made ACC tournaments attractive to stakeholders.
Nazmul Hassan, the outgoing ACC president, welcomed Shah’s reappointment, expressing confidence that cricket in Asia will continue to prosper under his leadership. The collaboration between Shah and the ACC is expected further to fuel the game’s growth in the region.
Jay Shah’s reappointment as the ACC president reflects the organization’s trust in his leadership and vision for the continued development and promotion of cricket across Asia. His achievements and dedication have strengthened the ACC’s position and contributed significantly to the sport’s growth in the region.