Will ensure Test cricket remains priority as it forms bedrock of the game: ICC Chairman Jay Shah

New Delhi: Newly-elected ICC Chairman Jay Shah says he will look to ensure that Test cricket forms the “bedrock” of the game in his tenure during which he will also twry to “dismantle barriers that have hindered cricket’s progress”.

The 35-year-old will relinquish his current position of BCCI secretary to succeed incumbent Greg Barclay on December 1 as the youngest ICC Chairman for a term of two years.

“While the T20 is a naturally exciting format, it is equally important that Test cricket remains a priority for everyone as it forms the bedrock of our game,” Shah said in a statement issued by the BCCI on Tuesday.

“We must see to it that cricketers are driven to longer format and our efforts will be channelised towards this goal,” he added.

Shah said he would also like to work towards setting up a separate program for talent search.

He emphasised on lifting the standard of the game across the globe.

“I want to assure you that I will do everything possible to elevate the standard of our game across the globe. As I step into this pivotal role, I am resolutely committed to meetingyour high expectations and dedicating myself to the beautiful game of cricket,”

he said.