Jay Shah, known for his leadership of the world's wealthiest cricket board, has now stepped into the role of chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). This marks a significant milestone in India's influence over global cricket governance.

The 36-year-old, who is also the youngest person to assume this position, officially began his tenure on Sunday. Shah, son of India's Home Minister Amit Shah, was unanimously elected in August, succeeding Greg Barclay, who chose not to seek re-election for a third term.

"Cricket has tremendous potential on a global scale, and I am eager to collaborate with the ICC team and member nations to harness these opportunities and elevate the sport to greater heights," Shah expressed in a statement.

He emphasized that this is an "exciting" period for cricket, with ongoing preparations for its inclusion in the 2028 Olympics and efforts to make the game more inclusive and appealing to fans worldwide.

"We are at a pivotal moment for the sport, balancing multiple formats while striving to accelerate the development of the women's game," Shah noted.

Shah's journey from leading India's cricket board to the ICC exemplifies India's growing dominance in global cricket administration. His prominence is further highlighted by his political connections, being the son of Amit Shah, a key figure in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.

The ICC, with over 100 member nations, oversees the organization of major global events like the World Cup. Shah's tenure begins amidst ongoing challenges, including uncertainty surrounding the Champions Trophy scheduled for next year. The event's fate hangs in the balance due to India’s reluctance to travel to host nation Pakistan.

According to ICC insiders, discussions are still underway to resolve the issue. Shah's leadership comes at a critical time for the future of the sport.