Big changes are coming in the world of cricket as Jay Shah, the current secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is set to take up a new role as the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). This major shift will take place on December 1, 2024, leaving the position of BCCI secretary open for a new candidate. Several names have surfaced as potential replacements for Shah, including a former cricketer and prominent figures from the world of cricket administration.
Jay Shah’s Journey to ICC Chairman
Jay Shah, who became BCCI secretary in 2019, has been a key figure in Indian cricket for the past few years. His tenure as BCCI secretary was set to end in 2025, but his rise to the position of ICC Chairman came earlier than expected. He filed his nomination for the ICC Chairmanship on August 27, 2024, and was elected unopposed, a testament to his influence in global cricket. As Shah prepares to take on his new role, the question remains: Who will fill his shoes at the BCCI?
Potential Candidates for BCCI Secretary
Several names are being discussed for the BCCI secretary position, with one standout being Anil Patel, a former cricketer who played for Gujarat. In addition to Patel, other notable contenders include Arun Dhumal and Ashish Shelar, both of whom have held significant positions within the BCCI.
Anil Patel – Former Cricketer from Gujarat
Anil Patel, a former Gujarat cricketer who played three first-class matches, is considered one of the leading contenders for the BCCI secretary post. Although his cricket career was short, with only 33 runs to his name, Patel has been actively involved in cricket administration. He currently serves as the secretary of the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA), a position once held by Jay Shah himself. This connection has made Patel a strong candidate for the BCCI secretary role. Patel also played a crucial role as the team manager during the World Test Championship Final 2023, further solidifying his credentials.
Arun Dhumal – IPL Chairman
Arun Dhumal, the brother of Union Minister Anurag Thakur and a key figure in Indian cricket, is another name being considered for the BCCI secretary post. Dhumal was elected as the BCCI treasurer in 2019, and two years ago, he took over as the Chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Under his leadership, the IPL saw three successful seasons, and the Women’s Premier League (WPL) was launched. Dhumal’s experience and leadership make him a strong candidate for the BCCI secretary position, as he has been closely involved in the board’s activities for years.
Ashish Shelar – BCCI Treasurer
Ashish Shelar, who currently holds the position of BCCI treasurer, is also being considered for the secretary role. A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Maharashtra, Shelar has been involved in cricket administration for several years. He served as the President of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) in 2017, and in 2022, he joined the BCCI. Shelar has a strong connection with Jay Shah and has been a close associate of his, which could work in his favor when it comes to selecting the next BCCI secretary.
What’s Next for BCCI?
As Jay Shah steps into his new role as ICC Chairman, the BCCI will face the task of choosing his replacement. The decision will likely come in the next few weeks, as the board prepares for this important transition. Whether it’s Anil Patel, Arun Dhumal, Ashish Shelar, or another candidate, the next BCCI secretary will have big shoes to fill, as Jay Shah has been instrumental in shaping the future of Indian cricket during his tenure.
The new secretary will take over at a critical time, with several important events lined up for Indian cricket, including domestic tournaments and international series. The individual chosen for this role will need to maintain the high standards set by Jay Shah and continue to lead the BCCI with the same level of commitment and passion.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the decision, it’s clear that whoever steps into this role will have a significant impact on the future of Indian cricket and its influence on the global stage. The BCCI has a history of making key decisions that shape the future of the sport, and this appointment will be no different.
