Jay-Shah. (Photo Source: Twitter)
The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, and the spotlight is on the squad selection process. Jay Shah, the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), shed light on how the selectors will approach picking the team for the marquee event.
Shah’s revelation came from the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), where several players have been showcasing their skills on the big stage. However, the BCCI secretary emphasized that the selectors cannot rely solely on IPL performances when choosing the World Cup squad.
“The selectors can’t choose based on IPL performance alone, as overseas experience is also necessary,” he said in an exclusive interview with the Times of India.
Shah expressed optimism about India’s chances at the T20 World Cup, saying, “We did well at the last ICC Men’s World Cup 2023, but the final victory eluded us. I am optimistic that we will bring home the T20 World Cup trophy this year,” he added.
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I feel the matches are getting more interesting: Jay Shah
When asked about potential contenders, Shah identified India, Australia, New Zealand, and the host nation, West Indies, as the teams to watch out for, citing their experience in the shortest format of the game. “India, Australia, New Zealand and the hosts, West Indies, because they are good in T20,” Shah further added.
Reflecting on the responsibilities divided between Roger Binny and him.”Roger Binny is the cricketing brain. He is involved in every cricketing decision while I look after the administration and finance part. But finally, we do everything together. We have a very transparent and consultative process,” he continued.
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The BCCI secretary also addressed concerns raised by former and present cricketers regarding the IPL’s impact player rule, stating that the BCCI is consulting all stakeholders and is open to making changes if necessary.
“It’s a test case. We are consulting players, franchisees, and all concerned. I feel the matches are getting more interesting, more Indian players are getting a chance to play. If our consultations reveal dissatisfaction, we will change it,” he concluded.