The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially declined to host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, citing logistical challenges associated with the monsoon season and their commitment to the ODI World Cup next year. Jay Shah, the secretary of the BCCI, revealed this pivotal decision during an interaction with journalists at the Times Group’s Mumbai office on Wednesday. Shah emphatically stated, “They (ICC) have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no.”
This question arose against the backdrop of ongoing disturbances in Bangladesh, which had prompted the ICC to consider India as an alternative venue for the event. Shah provided a detailed explanation of the BCCI’s stance, stating, “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.”
While addressing the need to shift focus to upcoming domestic series, Shah made it clear that the forthcoming home series against Bangladesh holds significant importance 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.” India is set to lock horns with Bangladesh in a highly-anticipated series featuring two Tests and three T20Is, commencing on September 19.
In an exciting development, the BCCI’s High Performance Centre in Bengaluru is nearing completion and is expected to be inaugurated next month. This state-of-the-art facility, a pet project of the BCCI, marks a significant milestone for Indian cricket. Jay Shah proudly announced, “After I took over as the secretary in October of 2019 October, 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.”
The High Performance Centre is designed to cater not just to cricketers but also to other athletes, a vision that Shah communicated to Neeraj Chopra during a recent meeting. With three grounds and 100 pitches, including 45 indoor turfs, the centre will feature various kinds of pitches, replicating conditions at famous international venues such as the Gabba in Brisbane and Kingsmead in Durban. This unique feature will allow the Indian team to practice on diverse surfaces, preparing them for overseas assignments.
Shah also addressed the underutilization of the land acquired in 2008 for the centre, expressing his gratitude, “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.”
In an effort to promote cricket in underserved regions, academies are being established in all the states of the North-East region and Jammu. Shah stressed the BCCI’s responsibility to develop the game in these areas, stating, “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.”
On administrative matters, Shah disclosed that VVS Laxman will continue as the head of the NCA, with his contract set for renewal.
The BCCI is also deliberating on the pros and cons of the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Shah commented, “We had a long chat about this in the recent meeting with the franchise owners. We had a long chat among our domestic teams also. There are positives and negatives to it. The negative is that it affects the all-rounders and 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.”
In addressing several other administrative issues, Shah confirmed ongoing discussions about a “Big Auction” in the IPL, stressing the importance of balancing a minority view with the majority opinion. “Ultimately the office-bearers (of the BCCI) will decide. 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 important as shuffling, for the growth of the game.”
Furthermore, the IPL may feature 84 games in the upcoming season, although a final decision is yet to be made. Shah remarked, “Nothing is confirmed. We will collectively decide. We’ve to factor in the workload of the players and the window also. It’s in the contract but it is up to the BCCI to decide.” Similarly, a definitive call on the addition of a sixth Women’s Premier League (WPL) team remains pending.
On the subject of Test cricket, Shah emphasized the need for a special fund to ensure the survival of the longest format of the game. “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”. Shah also expressed his reservations about hosting Pink Ball Tests in India, noting that many of these matches tend to finish in just two days, negatively impacting both spectators and broadcasters.
As club and team management decisions evolve, Shah provided his perspective on player participation in domestic competitions and the potential appointment of specialized coaches across different formats. Responding to the debate regarding whether Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be involved in the Duleep Trophy, Shah argued against it, “We should not insist on players like Rohit and Virat to play in the Duleep Trophy. They will risk injury. If you have noticed, in Australia and England, every international player does not play domestic cricket. We have to treat the players with respect.”
Additionally, Shah pointed out the bench strength and potential for having multiple coaches, highlighting that VVS Laxman has often stepped in for Rahul Dravid when needed.
In financial matters, Shah discussed the potential merger of Viacom 18 and Disney Star, downplaying its impact on future broadcasting rights negotiations. “How can you predict that? This time there were seven players. 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 finished by reaffirming his commitment to leveraging these multifaceted strategies to bolster Indian cricket’s prominence on the global stage.