In a moment of recognition for visionary leadership in global cricket, ICC Chairman Jay Shah was honoured with the prestigious Icon of Excellence Award at the 14th edition of the Forbes India Leadership Awards (FILA 2025). This accolade celebrates his transformative impact on the sport, from his tenure as BCCI Secretary to making history as the youngest-ever ICC Chair. The award was presented by Harsh Mariwala, Chairman of Marico Limited, and KVS Manian, MD & CEO of Federal Bank, at a star-studded ceremony at the JIO World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
A Visionary Leader Redefining Cricket’s Future
Mr. Shah’s dynamic leadership has driven some of the most groundbreaking reforms in cricket administration. Under his stewardship, cricket has witnessed unprecedented growth, innovation, and inclusivity. His key initiatives include:
- Pay Parity in Cricket: Ensuring equal match fees for male and female cricketers, setting a benchmark for gender equality in global sports.
- Women’s Premier League (WPL): Spearheading the launch of WPL, which has given women’s cricket an international platform and transformed it into a commercially viable and highly competitive league.
- National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence: Strengthening player development, injury management, and training facilities for future generations.
- Increase in Monthly Pensions: Providing financial security to former players, recognizing their contributions to the sport’s legacy.
- Global Expansion of Cricket: Promoting cricket’s presence in new regions, fostering international collaborations, and enhancing the sport’s global appeal.
A Night of Celebration and Inspiration
The Forbes India Leadership Awards celebrate excellence across various domains, and Mr. Shah’s recognition reinforces his role as a game-changer in the sports industry. His unwavering commitment to modernizing cricket’s ecosystem and elevating its stature on the world stage has earned him admiration from players, administrators, and fans alike.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Shah expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This award is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collective effort to take cricket to greater heights. The journey has been incredible, and I remain committed to making the sport more inclusive, globally connected, and future-ready.”
As cricket continues to evolve, Jay Shah’s leadership remains a driving force, ensuring that the sport’s rich heritage meets the demands of a rapidly changing world. His ability to blend tradition with innovation has cemented his legacy as one of cricket’s most influential figures.
