The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that India will not host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, as revealed by Jay Shah, the Secretary of the BCCI. In a recent interaction with the Times Group at their Mumbai office, Shah detailed the reasons for India’s refusal and emphasized the importance of the upcoming home series against Bangladesh.
“They (ICC) approached us to host the Women’s T20 World Cup, but I categorically declined,” Shah asserted. His response stemmed from logistical concerns and the busy cricketing calendar in India. “We’re currently in the monsoon season, and we are set to host the Women’s ODI World Cup next year. Hosting consecutive World Cups is not feasible,” he explained.
Additionally, Shah addressed the ongoing disturbances in Bangladesh, which led the ICC to consider relocating the World Cup. Despite these issues, Shah emphasized that the home series against Bangladesh remains a priority for the BCCI. “We haven’t spoken to the Bangladesh authorities yet. With a new government in charge, they might reach out to us, or I will initiate contact. The Bangladesh series is crucial for us,” he stated. This series, comprising two Tests and three T20Is, is scheduled to begin on September 19.
In other developments, the BCCI’s High Performance Centre in Bengaluru is nearing completion and is set to be inaugurated next month. This state-of-the-art facility, which will feature three grounds and 100 pitches, including 45 indoor turfs, represents one of Shah’s key initiatives since assuming the role of BCCI Secretary in October 2019. “A significant portion of my first term was spent managing the IPL amidst the pandemic. With our second term starting in 2022, we accelerated this project’s progress, which had its foundation laid during my initial term,” Shah recounted.
The facility is not only for cricketers but will also be accessible for non-cricketers, a point Shah made clear during his meeting with Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra. The centre’s unique offerings include an array of pitches that mimic conditions from various famous cricket grounds worldwide, thus providing comprehensive preparatory conditions for Indian teams before overseas tours.
BCCI’s commitment to developing cricket is also evident in the upcoming academies in the North-East region and Jammu. Shah underscored that developing cricket in these regions is both a right for the north-eastern states and a responsibility for the BCCI. “These states have full membership with us, and they are part of our country. Thus, they rightfully deserve opportunities, and it’s our duty to provide them. Previously, they received Rs 5 crore, but now they receive Rs 20 crore for cricket development,” he mentioned.
On administrative matters, Shah confirmed that VVS Laxman will continue as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Although Laxman’s contract was set to expire in September, the BCCI has decided to renew it, dispelling any speculation about his departure.
Regarding the much-talked-about Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Shah disclosed that the BCCI is still evaluating its merits and drawbacks. “We had extensive discussions about this with franchise owners and our domestic teams. While the rule affects all-rounders negatively, it also provides opportunities for additional Indian players. The opinions of broadcasters are also a factor.
. As an administrator, my focus is on the game’s well-being. We’ll decide based on the feedback we receive,” Shah said. The BCCI is also deliberating whether this rule will remain part of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) domestic competition, with a decision expected soon.
On the topic of the IPL, Shah emphasized the importance of considering minority views alongside majority opinions regarding the Big Auction. “We have heard all franchise views. For us, minority opinions are as crucial as majority ones. The final decision will be made by the BCCI office-bearers. Some franchises with strong teams oppose a big auction, while those with weaker sides support it. Balancing continuity and shuffling is essential for the game’s growth,” he remarked.
Discussing the future of Test cricket, Shah advocated for a dedicated fund to sustain the format, which is costly to host. “Being part of the ICC’s Finance and Commercial Affairs (F&CA) committee, I suggested a special fund for Test cricket. Hosting Test matches is expensive, and if the ICC Board approves, we can move forward with this idea,” he elaborated. Additionally, Shah explained why India has moved away from hosting Pink Ball Tests domestically, citing the tendency of these matches to conclude rapidly, which disappoints spectators and broadcasters.
Addressing women’s cricket, Shah noted that a World Test Championship for women would only be feasible if more nations began playing Test cricket. “Currently, only India, Australia, and England regularly play women’s Tests. If other countries like New Zealand and South Africa, who have recently begun playing Tests, continue, we might see progress,” he commented.
Shah also touched upon the debate around international stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli participating in domestic competitions like the Duleep Trophy. “Apart from them, most are playing. Star players like Rohit and Virat risk injury in domestic games. In countries like Australia and England, not every international player participates in domestic cricket. We need to respect our players’ needs,” he argued.
Finally, Shah explained why India doesn’t have different coaches for different formats and highlighted the presence of bench strength in coaching roles too. “Once we select a coach, like Gautam Gambhir, it is up to them to decide if they want to coach across formats. Around 70% of players are the same in all formats,” he said. Shah also revealed BCCI’s plans to potentially recruit a mental conditioning trainer for the team.
In terms of broadcasting, Shah remained confident about the growth and brand value of Indian cricket, irrespective of potential mergers like Viacom 18 and Disney Star. “Our primary goal is to ensure the game’s growth and brand value. Past records show incremental value in bilateral rights, and broadcasters naturally align with us,” he concluded.