ICC Chairman Jay Shah Calls for Strategic Planning for India's 2030-2036 Sporting Future
At the Grand Sports Conclave during the Sports Journalists Federation of India's Golden Jubilee celebrations, ICC Chairman Jay Shah delivered a compelling address, urging stakeholders to initiate long-term preparations for the 2030-2036 global sporting cycle. Held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, the event brought together administrators, corporate leaders, broadcasters, and media professionals to discuss the future trajectory of Indian sport.
Emphasizing Future-Oriented Planning
Jay Shah highlighted the critical need for advanced planning to strengthen India's global sporting presence. "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," he stated. Shah stressed that coordinated efforts across federations, corporates, athletes, and the media are essential to build a robust ecosystem capable of supporting Indian sport at every level.
Reflecting on Cricket's Golden Era
Shah reflected on the recent successes in Indian cricket, describing the period from 2019 to 2026 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 U19 tournaments to major ICC competitions," he noted. He credited the sports media for documenting landmark moments, such as India's T20 World Cup triumph, which he called a proud achievement for the nation.
Corporate and Media Collaboration in Sports Development
Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice President of Hero MotoCorp, discussed the transformative role of corporates in the Indian sporting landscape. He pointed out that while cricket remains dominant, sports like football, hockey, and golf are gaining international recognition. "Corporations today are not just sponsors placing logos on jerseys. Many organisations are actively investing in the sports ecosystem—building leagues, nurturing grassroots talent, and creating professional platforms for athletes," Bhan explained. He also acknowledged the media's vital role in amplifying achievements and inspiring youth.
Media's Impact on Sporting Narratives
Neville Bastawalla, Head of Marketing and On-Air Promotions at Sony Sports Network, highlighted how media campaigns can shape sporting success. Recalling the 'Mission 100' campaign before the Asian Games, he noted that media support helped build national belief, leading to India winning 107 medals. "Campaigns and storytelling around sport help create belief among fans and athletes alike. When the media supports a larger vision for Indian sport, it can inspire athletes and bring the entire country together behind their success," Bastawalla said.
Governance and Accountability for Growth
Remus D'Cruz, Global Head of Brand Strategy at Apollo Tyres, emphasized the importance of strong governance in sports bodies to attract corporate investment. "Sports media must hold a mirror to federations and call out wrongdoing where necessary. That accountability is important for the growth of sport," D'Cruz asserted. He added that improved transparency at local and state levels would encourage more companies to invest in sports development, unlocking new opportunities for the ecosystem.
Conclusion: A Unified Vision for Indian Sport
The Grand Sports Conclave served as a platform for collaborative dialogue on enhancing India's sporting future. With calls for long-term planning, increased corporate involvement, and media engagement, stakeholders are poised to work together towards achieving excellence in the 2030-2036 cycle and beyond.
