Lalit Modi Highlights Jay Shah's Impact on Global Cricket Growth
Synopsis
In a recent statement, Lalit Modi praised Jay Shah for breaking viewership records during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, emphasizing India's crucial role in expanding cricket's global appeal. Modi also discussed the challenges posed by franchise leagues and the need for a reevaluation of one-day cricket.
Key Takeaways
Lalit Modi commended Jay Shah's leadership in achieving record viewership for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
India's role in cricket's global expansion is emphasized.
Concerns regarding franchise leagues impacting international cricket schedules.
Modi questions the relevance of one-day cricket and suggests its elimination.
Cricket's potential Olympic inclusion could attract new audiences.
New Delhi, March 4 (NationPress) Lalit Modi, the architect of the Indian Premier League, has praised Jay Shah, the chairman of the International Cricket Council, following the unprecedented viewership numbers for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
Modi shared Jay Shah's announcement that the tournament had achieved over 500 million viewers in India, emphasizing the significant role India plays in the global cricket arena.
“This demonstrates the incredible influence India holds in the cricketing world. You're doing a fantastic job along with your team, even with challenges from countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan attempting to undermine the game. Under your stewardship, as evidenced during this World Cup, I am confident cricket will continue to flourish on a global scale,” Modi remarked on X.
He also highlighted the increasing pressure on the international cricket calendar due to the emergence of franchise leagues. “International matches will increasingly compete with domestic leagues such as the IPL, CPL, Big Bash League, and South African league; Fortunately, leagues like The Hundred and MLC are likely to fade away,” he added.
Shifting his focus to cricket's potential inclusion in the Olympics, Modi stated, “The ICC is embarking on its most ambitious journey yet by introducing the beloved sport of cricket to the Olympics in Los Angeles, which will present the game to a fresh audience and inspire generations of children yet to discover our sport.” He also sparked discussion with his bold comments regarding the future of one-day cricket, questioning its relevance and calling for the ICC to eliminate the 50-over format.
In his most provocative suggestion, Modi commented, “The ICC should seriously consider whether the one-day format still holds any significance. In my opinion, this format could be abolished, freeing up time for players who are already stretched thin by their commitments.”
“With mandatory international appearances and their own domestic leagues, plus the inevitable draw of the IPL—where they can earn significant income, attract viewership, and engage in competitive play—this evolution mirrors trends across major sports. The Future Tours Program must carefully address these challenges,” he concluded.
Point of View
Lalit Modi's remarks underline the critical intersection of sports management and international relations in cricket. His insights reflect a keen understanding of the challenges facing cricket's future, especially in the context of emerging leagues and the sport's global outreach ambitions.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Lalit Modi say about Jay Shah?
Lalit Modi praised Jay Shah for his leadership and the record-breaking viewership during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, highlighting India's influence in global cricket.
How many viewers did the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 attract?
The tournament attracted over 500 million viewers in India.
What concerns did Modi express about the future of cricket?
Modi expressed concerns about the pressure on the international calendar from domestic leagues and questioned the relevance of the one-day cricket format.
What did Modi suggest about one-day cricket?
Modi suggested that the ICC should reevaluate the one-day format, proposing it could be eliminated to ease players' commitments.
What is Modi's view on cricket's inclusion in the Olympics?
Modi believes that cricket's inclusion in the Olympics will expose the sport to new audiences and generations, enhancing its global appeal.
