In a significant revelation, Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has confirmed that India will not be hosting the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. This decision came to light during an interaction with journalists from the Times Group at the Times of India’s Mumbai office on Wednesday. Amidst speculations and ongoing disturbances in Bangladesh, Shah stated, “They (ICC) have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no.”
Explaining the rationale behind this, Shah cited the Indian monsoon season and the country’s preparations for hosting the Women’s ODI World Cup next year. He emphasized that holding back-to-back World Cups would not be ideal. “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,” Shah elaborated.
The decision to decline hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup aligns with the BCCI’s strategic priorities, one of which is the upcoming home series against Bangladesh. Shah underscored the importance of this series for the BCCI, noting the recent changes in the Bangladeshi government. “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 play two Tests and three T20Is against Bangladesh starting September 19.
Amidst these developments, the BCCI has been making significant strides in enhancing cricket infrastructure within the country. The High-Performance Centre in Bengaluru, one of the BCCI’s flagship projects, is nearing completion and is scheduled to be inaugurated next month. Shah reflected on the effort that went into this project, stating that a lot of time had initially been spent on organizing the IPL during the pandemic. “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 will be a state-of-the-art facility featuring three grounds and 100 pitches, including 45 indoor turfs. A unique feature of the center is its variety of pitches that resemble those seen at major international stadiums like the Gabba in Brisbane and Kingsmead in Durban. These pitches will enable the Indian team to practice under conditions they are likely to encounter abroad.
In addition to the High-Performance Centre, new academies are being established across all states in the North-East region and Jammu. Shah emphasized that it was both the right of these states and the responsibility of the BCCI to develop the game there. “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.”
Regarding leadership at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Shah announced that VVS Laxman, the current head, would continue in his role despite his contract expiring in September. The BCCI is set to renew his contract, ensuring stability and continuity.
Another hot topic for discussion in recent BCCI meetings has been the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Shah indicated that the rule’s future is being evaluated carefully, highlighting both its pros and cons. “We had a long chat about this in the recent meeting with the franchise owners. 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.”
During these discussions, the governance of Test cricket also came under the spotlight. Shah proposed 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.”
The BCCI is also reflecting on the complications associated with day-night Tests in India, which tend to conclude within two days, much to the dismay of spectators and broadcasters. Shah articulated concerns about this, stating that short matches lead to fan dissatisfaction as they do not get value for the tickets purchased for five days.
As for future plans, Shah revealed that the BCCI is considering recruiting a mental conditioning trainer for the team. He also mentioned that a decision regarding the launch of the sixth Women’s Premier League (WPL) team is pending.
Concluding his remarks, Shah touched upon the consolidation in the broadcasting space with the potential merger of Viacom 18 and Disney Star. However, he expressed optimism that competition would remain robust when broadcasting rights come up for renewal in 2027. “This time there were seven players. My job is to ensure the growth of the game and increase the brand value of Indian cricket.”
In summary, the BCCI, under Jay Shah’s leadership, is steadfastly focusing on infrastructure development, maintaining the importance of bilateral series, tackling challenges within domestic cricket regulations, and ensuring Test cricket’s viability, all while responding to changing dynamics within international cricket and broadcasting realms.