New Delhi, March 15 (NationPress) ICC Chairman Jay Shah hinted on Sunday about India's potential role as the host for the 2036 Olympics, emphasizing the need for thorough preparations for this monumental sporting event. He made these remarks during the Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) National Convention held in New Delhi.

“You are all aware that during my tenure at BCCI, I planned for 2028. Fortunately, the outcome was favorable. However, the BCCI team is present here, and I urge you all to prepare for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. And, of course, you should also gear up for the 2036 Olympics,” he stated.

Shah, who transitioned from BCCI Secretary to ICC Chairman in 2024, reflected on a significant era for Indian cricket from 2019 to 2026. “This period was crucial for both BCCI and India. I extend my congratulations to everyone. We secured two titles in the Under-19 Women's World Cup and two in the Under-19 Men's World Cup.

“We were runners-up twice in the World Test Championship, once in the Men’s ODI World Cup, and also won the Women’s ODI World Cup. We clinched the T20 World Cup twice and triumphed in the Champions Trophy. Hence, this period from 2019 to 2026 was a golden era for all of us, and your contributions were significant,” he added.

Shah praised India's remarkable performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup and congratulated other teams that excelled during the tournament.

“The T20 World Cup has just concluded, and India showcased an outstanding performance. I congratulate the entire Indian team. Additionally, England and South Africa remained unbeaten until the semifinals; I commend those teams as well. New Zealand, who faced South Africa and reached the finals, deserves congratulations for their tenacity,” he remarked.

He expressed special appreciation for the associate nations for their impressive performances that enhanced the tournament's prestige. “This World Cup 2026 was crucial for the associate countries. While India won the World Cup, we nearly lost to the USA. The Netherlands was on the verge of defeating Pakistan.

“Nepal put up a strong fight against England, and Zimbabwe challenged Australia significantly. I want to thank all associate nations for making this World Cup memorable with their performances. The stature of this World Cup has significantly risen, as you are all aware.

“The concurrent viewership and records set during this World Cup were unprecedented. I won’t disclose the figures now since you are all attentive to my words. Once the numbers are finalized, I will share them through my tweets and ICC press releases. The viewership records for the 2026 World Cup have been shattered, and I am confident about this,” he elaborated.

Shah also highlighted that it was the 25th anniversary of India’s iconic Test victory at Eden Gardens in Kolkata in 2001. “Today is March 15, and even though I am slightly late, I want to remind everyone of the Test match from March 11-15, 2001, in Kolkata, where we won by 276 runs. VVS Laxman scored 281 runs, and Rahul Dravid contributed 180 runs, turning the match around for us. This day holds great significance for us,” he noted.

Shah acknowledged the media's critical role in the success of Indian cricket, reminiscing how reporters stayed in Barbados after the T20 World Cup final to capture the victory moment.

“I know that when Rohit Sharma elevated India's flag in Barbados, you were all aware that a storm was brewing. You could have left after the match, but you chose to remain to capture that moment. I recall returning to India with all of you. Thank you for sharing that winning moment,” he expressed.

“You all pay meticulous attention to player statistics, runs scored, and wickets taken. Even if there is an error, you catch it. Thus, the team’s remarkable performance today owes a lot to your efforts, and I sincerely thank you for that,” he added.

Regarding his relationship with the media, Shah was open, stating he had intentionally maintained distance from journalists to ensure impartiality. “I have been involved with BCCI since 2019, and since 2024, I have been with ICC. I haven’t had much interaction with journalists due to my responsibilities, but I have never shown favoritism toward any journalist.

“All my views have been communicated through media channels. Sometimes, friendships with office bearers or players lead to news leaks, but I believe everyone deserves equal access to information, which is why I have never disclosed news on behalf of BCCI or ICC,” he noted.

“As I reviewed the list of sponsors with all ICC and BCCI members present, I realized I could learn from you on obtaining sponsorships. There are numerous listings. I believe this entire board is filled. There are many more that I haven’t had the chance to view, but this is truly an art. Thank you all for being here,” he concluded.