“Jay Shah will be the next ICC president”, -Gavaskar

Sunil Gavaskar has fiercely criticised certain groups within international cricket, known as the 'Old Powers,' for alleging that Jay Shah pressured Greg Barclay into stepping down as ICC chairman. Earlier this month, Barclay confirmed that he would be stepping down from his position on November 30, following the completion of his third term. Following this announcement, BCCI secretary Jay Shah emerged as the leading candidate to succeed him. Shah reportedly has significant support from ICC board members and is likely to be the sole candidate for the position.

Although Shah has yet to file his nomination—August 27 being the deadline—former Indian captain Gavaskar not only highlighted the potential global benefits of Shah’s leadership but also took aim at those accusing him of forcing Barclay out.

"In all likelihood, Jay Shah will be the next ICC president. Just as he has done for Indian cricket, both men's and women's, players worldwide will benefit," Gavaskar wrote in his Sportstar column. "When Greg Barclay announced his decision not to seek a third term, which he was eligible for, there were reports from the Old Powers suggesting Shah had pushed him out. But when these constant complainers were asked about what their own representatives at the ICC were doing during the meeting, they suddenly went quiet."

Gavaskar further argued that the criticism stems from the realisation that these groups no longer control the game as they once did. "Where were their objections? If none were raised, then they are just as responsible as the ones they are wrongly accusing. This is classic Tall Poppy Syndrome combined with the understanding that they no longer hold the reins of international cricket," he added.

The legendary cricketer also credited the "terrific teamwork" between Indian players and BCCI administrators for the sport's success in the country. "The evolution of Indian cricket is a testament to both the BCCI and its administration. The success of our teams, both men’s and women’s, is a major reason why cricket thrives in India. If the team wasn’t winning, sponsors would stay away. The synergy between the players and administrators explains why Indian cricket is in such a strong position, and long may it continue," Gavaskar concluded.