The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced its decision to not host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in India. This revelation came from Jay Shah, the secretary of the BCCI, during an interaction with journalists from the Times Group at the TOI’s Mumbai office on Wednesday.
“We were approached by the ICC to consider hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup, but I have categorically said no,” Shah stated firmly when asked about the ongoing disturbances in Bangladesh which had led to India being considered as an alternative host. Shah further elaborated on the BCCI’s stance, emphasizing the monsoon season coupled with the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup next year. “We don’t want to give any signals that we are keen on holding consecutive World Cups,” he added.
Among various priorities, Shah confirmed the importance of the forthcoming home series against Bangladesh. “A new government has taken charge in Bangladesh. We have not yet engaged with them, but I intend to. The upcoming Bangladesh series holds significant importance for us,” he asserted. The Indian cricket team is scheduled to play two Tests and three T20Is starting September 19.
**New Facilities and Academies**
The BCCI’s notable venture, the High Performance Centre in Bengaluru, one of Shah’s major projects, is nearing completion. Set to be inaugurated next month, Shah reflected on the various challenges that slowed down its progress. “After I took over as the secretary in October 2019, much of our efforts went into managing the IPL during the pandemic. The office was shut for two years. Upon securing a second term in 2022, we made advancing this project a priority. The foundation was laid during my first term,” he explained.
The state-of-the-art facility, accessible to non-cricketers as well, will feature three grounds and a staggering 100 pitches, including 45 indoor turfs. “We wanted to maximize the potential of the land we acquired in 2008. Unfortunately, my predecessors did not utilize it, but it was destined for me to raise this academy.” Shah proudly expressed. The centre will include diverse pitches mirroring conditions found globally, enabling the Indian team to train comprehensively before overseas tours.
Further, new academies are being established in all Northeastern states and Jammu, marking BCCI’s commitment to regional development. Shah underlined the responsibility that comes with full membership and ensuring opportunities for all. “They deserve the opportunity to grow the game, and it is our duty to support that. Funding has increased significantly from Rs 5 crore to Rs 20 crore to facilitate this.”
Shah also reassured that VVS Laxman, the head of the NCA, will continue in his role. Speculations about Laxman’s departure have been dismissed as his contract, due to expire in September, will be renewed.
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**Continuity of the Impact Player Rule**
Shah touched on the much-debated Impact Player rule in the IPL, highlighting both positives and negatives. “The rule provides an opportunity to an extra Indian player but affects all-rounders. The decision ultimately revolves around the game’s integrity and audience feedback,” he articulated. Regarding its implementation in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Shah mentioned that a final decision will be made within a week.
**IPL and Big Auction**
The impending Big Auction in the IPL was also discussed. Shah emphasized the importance of considering minority views alongside majority opinions. “We have listened to all franchises. Continuity and strategic shuffling are both crucial for the game’s growth,” he noted. The IPL is likely to see an increase to 84 games from next season, though no final decision has been made yet.
Shah acknowledged the need for balance, especially concerning player workload. Similarly, a call on the expansion of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) remains pending. “We will consider expanding once we are confident of integrating more women players,” he stated.
**Special Fund for Test Cricket**
Highlighting the necessity for a dedicated fund for Test cricket, Shah disclosed ongoing discussions at the ICC. “Hosting Test matches is costly. If the ICC Board approves, creating a special fund can secure the future of the longest format,” he proposed. He also explained India’s shift away from Pink Ball Tests at home due to matches often ending prematurely, affecting viewers and broadcasters.
**Possibility of Women’s World Test Championship**
On the prospect of initiating a Women’s World Test Championship, Shah identified the need for universal participation in women’s Test cricket. “Until all nations commit to playing Test cricket, a championship is unfeasible,” Shah said, with hopes that more nations like New Zealand and South Africa will join the fold.
**Player Participation in Domestic Competitions**
The topic of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli participating in domestic competitions was also covered. Shah opined that it’s unnecessary for them to risk injuries in domestic tournaments, given their pivotal roles in the national team. Highlighting the engagement of other international players in domestic cricket, he emphasized the need to respect players’ involvement levels.
**Coaching Dynamics**
India’s approach to coaching across formats remains consolidated, according to Shah. “We have bench strength in coaching at the NCA. Specialization in coaching formats will depend on future recruitments and their preferences,” he clarified.
**Future Media Rights**
In light of the expected merger between Viacom 18 and Disney Star, Shah noted the potential changes in media rights bidding come 2027 but remained optimistic. “Our goal is to ensure the continual growth and brand value of Indian cricket, which inevitably attracts broadcasters,” he confidently concluded.