The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially communicated its decision not to host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in India. Jay Shah, the secretary of the BCCI, made this announcement during an interaction with Times Group journalists at their Mumbai office. The decision emerges against the backdrop of current disturbances in Bangladesh, leading to speculation about India being a potential alternative venue for the World Cup. Shah clarified the BCCI’s stance by saying, “They (ICC) have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no.”
Explaining the BCCI’s reasoning, Shah pointed out the challenges and logistical constraints. “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 articulated.
Despite the decision, Shah emphasized the importance of the upcoming home series against Bangladesh for the BCCI. “We’ve not spoken to them (the 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,” he underscored. The series, beginning on September 19, will feature two Tests and three T20Is.
New Initiatives and Projects
Among the various initiatives the BCCI has been undertaking, the High-Performance Centre in Bengaluru stands out. Near completion, this facility is set to be inaugurated next month. “After I took over as the secretary in October of 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,” Shah explained.
The state-of-the-art facility is also set to be available to non-cricketers. Highlighting its features, Shah said the center includes three grounds and 100 pitches, 45 of which are indoor turfs. Unique aspects of the center are the variety of pitches that replicate those found globally, such as at the Gabba in Brisbane or Kingsmead in Durban. This allows the Indian team to practice on pitches similar to those they’ll encounter in international assignments.
BCCI’s efforts also extend to regions historically less developed in cricket. Academies are being established across all states in the North-East region and in Jammu. Shah emphasized, “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 and now they are getting Rs 20 crore to run the game.”
Retainment and Developments
Addressing the speculation around VVS Laxman’s future as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Shah confirmed that Laxman will continue in his role. With his contract set to expire in September, there was uncertainty, but the BCCI plans to renew it.
Furthermore, the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is under review. Shah noted the pros and cons of the rule, stating that it offers an opportunity for an extra Indian player while affecting all-rounders. Whether this rule will continue in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) will be decided soon. To address the challenges posed by early morning matches, Shah pointed out the extensive number of games that need scheduling while ensuring fairness in the number of morning and night matches each team plays.
Shah addressed the issue of the Big Auction in IPL, highlighting the BCCI’s approach to giving weight to both majority and minority opinions. “Those who have a good side said there is no need for the big auction and those without a good side wanted the big auction. Continuity is as important as shuffling, for the growth of the game,” he mentioned.
The Future of Test Cricket
Shah also dwelled on the state and future of Test cricket, advocating for a dedicated fund to ensure its survival. “I am a member of F&CA (Finance and Commercial Affairs) of the ICC. 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. We’re trying to create a special fund for Test cricket,” he explained.
He also commented on the absence of Pink Ball Tests in India, attributing it to matches concluding within two days. “Spectators and broadcasters are losing out,” he said, stressing the need to consider their sentiments.
As for women’s Test matches and a potential World Test Championship, he stated its feasibility hinges on all nations playing Test cricket. “Apart from India, Australia and England, other teams are not playing Tests. Things will progress when all countries start playing Tests,” he noted.
Addressing calls for star players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play in the Duleep Trophy, Shah pointed out the risk of injuries, emphasizing the importance of treating players with respect.
In regards to coaching for different formats, Shah conveyed that the BCCI has a strong bench of coaches and listens to the preferences of the recruited coach. He also highlighted the potential recruitment of a mental conditioning trainer for the team, who may not necessarily be a foreigner.
Lastly, on the topic of broadcasting, Shah expressed confidence that the growth of the game and increased brand value of Indian cricket would naturally attract broadcasters. “My job is to ensure the growth of the game and increase the brand value of Indian cricket. As it happens, the broadcasters come automatically,” he concluded.