In a significant development for Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that it will not host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Jay Shah, the secretary of the BCCI, disclosed this decision during an interaction with journalists from the Times Group at the publication’s Mumbai office on Wednesday.
“They (ICC) have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no,” Shah stated firmly. The question arose against the backdrop of ongoing disturbances in Bangladesh, which led to speculation about India potentially hosting the tournament. Shah, however, explained the BCCI’s stance, noting the overlap with the monsoon season and the upcoming women’s ODI World Cup slated for next year. “We’re in the monsoon, and on top of that, we will host the women’s ODI World Cup next year. I don’t want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups,” he elaborated.
Moreover, Shah emphasized the importance of the upcoming home series against Bangladesh, where India will play two Tests and three T20Is starting September 19. “We’ve not spoken to them (Bangladesh authorities). A new government has taken charge there. They might reach out to us or else I will reach out to them. The Bangladesh series is very important to us,” Shah reiterated.
One of BCCI’s standout projects, the High-Performance Centre in Bengaluru, is near completion and is set to be inaugurated next month. Shah shared his experiences since taking over as the BCCI secretary in October 2019, detailing how the pandemic had delayed several projects. “After I took over as the secretary in October 2019, a lot of time went towards holding the IPL because of the pandemic. The office was shut for two years. When we got the second term in 2022, we decided that we have to take this project forward. The foundation was laid in my first term,” he explained.
The state-of-the-art facility will not only benefit cricketers but also non-cricketers, Shah noted, mentioning a recent conversation with Neeraj Chopra. The High-Performance Centre will feature three grounds and 100 pitches, including 45 indoor turfs, encompassing various types of pitches found globally. This unique setup aims to help the Indian team prepare for overseas assignments.
“We wanted to make the best use of what we got on a platter. In 2008, we got that land and I don’t know why my predecessors didn’t use that. I am lucky that it was in my destiny to raise the academy. It was unfortunate that we had to run the National Cricket Academy (NCA) from the Chinnaswamy Stadium. We’re No. 1 in finances, No. 1 in marketing, and we’re No. 1 in cricket also. If you look at the ranking, we are No.
. 1 in two formats and No. 2 in one format. Earlier we were No. 1 in all three formats,” Shah expressed.
In addition to the Bengaluru project, Shah announced that academies are being established in all the North-Eastern states as well as Jammu. “It’s simple. They have got full membership and they are part of the country. Opportunity is their right and it is our responsibility too. Earlier they used to get Rs 5 crore; now they are getting Rs 20 crore to run the game,” Shah asserted.
Turning to the National Cricket Academy’s leadership, Shah confirmed that VVS Laxman, the current head, will continue in his role with a contract renewal imminent. Speculation about Laxman leaving had circulated recently, but Shah reassured that his contract would be extended.
The much-discussed Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) also came under review, with Shah indicating that the BCCI is weighing its pros and cons. “We had a long chat about this in the recent meeting with the franchise owners and among our domestic teams. There are positives and negatives to it. The negative is that it affects the all-rounders, but the positive side is that it gives an opportunity to an extra Indian player. We should think about the broadcasters also. For me as an administrator, the game is important. Let’s see what feedback we’re getting,” Shah explained.
In addressing domestic competitions, Shah mentioned that a decision would soon be made about the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). Concerns have been raised about the early start times of some matches and the effect on teams’ performances. Shah assured adjustments to the schedule, especially concerning weather conditions affecting the Ranji Trophy.
Regarding the IPL, Shah discussed the anticipated “Big Auction,” stressing that the BCCI gives equal consideration to minority and majority views before final decisions are made. “We’ve heard the views of all the franchises. For us, a minority view is as important as the majority opinion. Ultimately the office-bearers of the BCCI will decide.”
Notably, Shah touched upon the future of Test cricket, advocating for a special fund dedicated to the sport’s longest format. “I have suggested there should be a dedicated fund for Test cricket. It’s very expensive to host Test matches. If the (ICC) Board approves, we can do that,” he said.
In conclusion, Shah articulated the challenges of day-night Tests in India and the reluctance to implement different coaching staff for varied formats. He emphasized treating players with respect and ensuring the growth of cricket remains the primary goal.