Shah urges long-term planning of India’s sporting future

International Cricket Council (ICC) chair Jay Shah on Sunday urged the stakeholders to begin preparing for the 2030-36 global sporting cycle. He stressed the importance of co-ordinated efforts across federations, corporates, athletes and the media.

Shah was speaking at the Grand Sports Conclave on the third day of the Sports Journalists’ Federation of India (SJFI) national convention here.

“While we focus on present competitions, we must also prepare for the future cycle — the 2030 Commonwealth Games, the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and the 2036 Olympics. Planning for these events has to begin well in advance if India wants to strengthen its global sporting footprint,” Shah said.

Reflecting on the recent success of Indian cricket, Shah described the 2019-26 period as a golden phase. “From 2019 to 2026 has been a golden period for Indian cricket. We have achieved success across formats and age-groups, from under-19 tournaments to major ICC competitions,” he said.

He also described India’s recent T20 World Cup triumph as a landmark moment and credited the sports media for documenting the historic achievement. “When India lifted the World Cup, it was a proud moment for the entire country. Many of you travelled with the team and captured those memories for millions of fans,” Shah said.

Focus on athletes: Usha

Meanwhile, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president P.T. Usha said the future of the country’s sporting ecosystem must be guided by policies that place athletes at the centre of decision-making.

Usha said ensuring the preparation, welfare and development of athletes must remain the highest priority for administrators and sporting bodies.

“Athlete-first governance must guide the future of Indian sport. Their preparation, welfare and development must remain our highest priority,” Usha said while addressing the members of the sports media fraternity.