BJP Strengthens Grip on Indian Cricket: Ex-Minister’s Son Set to Replace Jay Shah as BCCI Secretary
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) continues to tighten its control over Indian cricket administration. According to sources, when Jay Shah moves to the International Cricket Council (ICC) as its new Chairman, the next BCCI Secretary is likely to be the son of a former BJP minister. While Roger Binny holds the position of BCCI President, it is well understood that the real power lies with Jay Shah, the son of India’s Home Minister, Amit Shah. This status quo is not expected to change anytime soon, as BJP affiliates seek to maintain their dominance over Indian cricket.
Currently, Jay Shah serves as the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). In two months, he is set to assume the role of Chairman of the ICC, with his term beginning on December 1. Before that, BCCI is expected to announce the name of its new Secretary. The annual general meeting of the BCCI is scheduled for September 29, with an Apex Council meeting set for September 25. All responsibilities will remain with Jay Shah until the end of September, but sources suggest that the decision on the new Secretary has already been made, though the name has yet to be revealed publicly.
BJP Strengthens Grip on Indian Cricket: Ex-Minister’s Son Set to Replace Jay Shah as BCCI Secretary
Cricket is a vital pillar of India’s economy due to its immense popularity. The sport enjoys an almost religious following in the country, with the IPL emerging as a financial powerhouse, envied by the global cricketing community. No other country matches India’s massive population, and the game’s success attracts countless advertisers and sponsors. The BCCI’s control over cricket not only strengthens the sport’s commercial success but also expands political influence and public relations for those involved.
Since the BJP came to power in 2014, individuals with direct or indirect ties to the party have been placed at the helm of various state cricket associations. It appears that this strategy will continue, with the next BCCI Secretary expected to have close connections to the BJP. The announcement is just days away, as Indian cricket’s ties with politics grow stronger.
