Sunil Gavaskar Slams 'Constant Critics' for Alleging that Jay Shah Coerced Greg Barclay into Stepping Down as ICC Chairman

Earlier this month, Greg Barclay announced that he would step down as ICC chairman at the end of his current third term on November 30. Following this announcement, BCCI secretary Jay Shah has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed him. Shah not only has significant support from ICC board members but is also expected to be the sole contender for the position.

Although Jay Shah has not yet submitted his nomination for the role, with August 27 being the final deadline, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has not only predicted significant global benefits for cricket if Shah assumes the position but has also launched a strong critique against the ‘Old Powers’ of international cricket. Gavaskar condemned their allegations that Shah pressured Greg Barclay to step down from his ICC chairmanship.

“In all probability, Jay Shah will be the next ICC president. Just as he has done for Indian cricket, both men and women, players worldwide will benefit. When Greg Barclay announced his decision not to go for a third term, which he was entitled to, there were reports in the media of the Old Powers that Barclay’s decision had been forced by Shah. Only when the perennial cribbers were questioned about what the representatives of their Old Powers were doing did it suddenly occur to them that if indeed Barclay was forced to not seek a third term, then what were their own representatives at the ICC doing at the meeting?” Gavaskar wrote in his column.

The legendary Indian batter further criticised the 'Old Powers,' suggesting that their criticism stemmed from their realisation that they would no longer hold influence over the game.

“Where were their voices of objection? And if there were none, then they were as culpable as the one they were unnecessarily pointing a finger at. It’s called the Tall Poppy syndrome, as well as the realisation that they don’t run the international game anymore,” he added.

The veteran Indian batter then attributed the flourishing of cricket in India to the "terrific teamwork" between the players and the BCCI administration.

"The way Indian cricket has shaped up over the years is also a tribute to the BCCI and its administration. The kind of cricket that the teams, both men and women, have been playing is another huge reason why the sport is flourishing in India. If the team was not winning, the sponsors would stay away. Terrific teamwork from both the players and the administrators explains why Indian cricket is in such a healthy state. May it always remain so," he said.