Indias Cricket Board Faces Criticism Over Alleged Global Governance Control

Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack Criticizes Indian Influence on Global Cricket Administration

The UK-based Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack has expressed concerns over what it describes as Indian political interference in global cricket administration. The annual publication, which dates back to 1864 and is widely regarded as the sport’s “bible,” highlighted these issues in its 163rd edition.

According to editor Lawrence Booth, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has an Indian chief executive, Sanjog Gupta, and an Indian chairman, Jay Shah. Shah is the son of Amit Shah, India’s minister of home affairs, and a close ally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Wisden described the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which Shah led before taking over at the ICC, as closely tied to India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

Booth noted that politics played a significant role in the 2025 Asia Cup, which took place against the backdrop of tensions between India and Pakistan. The players from both countries refused to shake hands during their matches, with some citing concerns over the influence of politics on the sport.

The Wisden editor also pointed out that the BCCI’s actions were often driven by political considerations. For example, when India captain Suryakumar Yadav dedicated a win to the armed forces, it was seen as an attempt to capitalize on nationalistic sentiment. Similarly, Prime Minister Modi’s comments after India beat Pakistan in the final of the Asia Cup were perceived as using cricket as a proxy for military action.

Furthermore, Wisden highlighted the case of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, who was released from a lucrative deal with an Indian Premier League franchise amid rising tensions between the two nations. This incident led to Bangladesh’s removal from this year’s men’s T20 World Cup due to government concerns over safety.

In its critique, Wisden described the current state of global cricket governance as “increasingly Orwellian.” The publication argued that the influence of Indian exceptionalism is often ignored, and those lower down in the sport are blamed for reacting to it.

Source: Al Jazeera