Singapore to Host ICC Annual Conference in July 2025, Jay Shah’s First as ICC Chairman

Singapore will host the International Cricket Council (ICC) Annual Conference in the third week of July, where representatives from all member nations will gather to make pivotal decisions shaping cricket’s future, as reported by Cricbuzz.

This marks a significant moment, as it will be the first annual conference chaired by ICC chairman Jay Shah since he officially took over the position in December last year.

The Cricket Committee, headed by Sourav Ganguly, has put forward several innovative proposals to enhance the sport. One significant recommendation is a change to ODI playing conditions, allowing fielding teams to choose their preferred ball after the 34th over, while maintaining the two-ball start. This aims to restore balance between bat and ball by aiding reverse swing in the latter stages of an inning. 

Another suggestion involves introducing a 60-second stop clock in Test cricket, similar to T20Is and ODIs, to combat slow over rates. A significant proposal is to shift the men’s Under-19 World Cup from its current 50-over format to a T20 format, aligning it with the women’s Under-19 World Cup.

The Singapore conference will likely see the formation of a working group to evaluate these proposals, ensuring a thorough review before implementation. 

Also read: Watch MS Dhoni Channel His Inner Lionel Messi in Jaw-Dropping Lay's Ad

World Cricketers’ Association Faces Uphill Battle

The conference might also address preliminary discussions held by the ICC regarding the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA), formerly known as FICA. The WCA has recommended restructuring ICC governance and reviewing the existing financial distribution model, which heavily favors full members, with India alone claiming 38.5 percent of revenues. 

However, clarity is lacking on whether the ICC Board has formally taken up these suggestions. Deliberations at the Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) level indicate a lack of consensus, with reports suggesting the CEC views the WCA as lacking the authority to dictate terms to the ICC. 

Only a few full-member boards has affiliated with the WCA, and individual boards are expected to engage directly with their players associated with the organization. The chances of the WCA’s recommendations getting accepted by the ICC do not appear to be bright.

Also read: ICC Delivers Strong Message To World Cricketer's Association Over IPL vs WCA Debate