Sunil Gavaskar criticizes ‘Old Powers’ in cricket for allegations on Jay Shah over ICC leadership changes | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has expressed confidence that Jay Shah could positively impact global cricket as he has done for Indian cricket if he becomes the next International Cricket Council (ICC) president.
Gavaskar’s comments come after ICC chairman Greg Barclay‘s announcement that he would not seek another term.
“In all probability, Jay Shah will be the next ICC president,” Gavaskar wrote in his latest column for Sportstar.”Just as he has done for Indian cricket, both men and women, players worldwide will benefit.”Gavaskar questioned the speculations that Shah forced Barclay not to seek a third term, particularly criticizing the so-called “Old Powers” in cricket who seemed disgruntled by the leadership changes. He implied that these critics were worried about losing control over international cricket.
“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,” Gavaskar explained. “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?”

The former cricketer criticized these “Old Powers” further, suggesting their objections were driven by fears of losing influence.
“Their basis of criticism was only because they realized they won’t be having power over the game anymore,” he stated. “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 realization that they don’t run the international game anymore.”
In praise of Shah, Gavaskar highlighted the strong collaboration between players and administrators within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He attributed this teamwork to the flourishing state of Indian cricket.
“The way Indian cricket has shaped up over the years is also a tribute to the BCCI and its administration,” Gavaskar remarked. “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.”
Gavaskar’s endorsement of Shah and his critique of the “Old Powers” reflect a potential shift in cricket’s global governance. This shift could allow emerging leaders to redefine the sport’s administration on the international stage.