Jay Shah Strengthens ICC-Africa Ties During Windhoek Visit
Jay Shah engages with African cricket leaders and watches the U-19 World Cup match in Namibia.
International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah met with leaders of the Africa Cricket Association in Windhoek as part of ongoing efforts to promote and develop cricket across the African continent. The meeting focused on strategies to strengthen grassroots programmes, improve infrastructure, and support emerging cricketing nations in the region.
Shah also attended an ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026 match at the Namibia Cricket Ground, the newly inaugurated venue operated by Cricket Namibia. He watched the young players showcase their skills, highlighting the importance of nurturing talent at the junior level to ensure the sport’s sustainable growth.
The ICC chairman emphasised the organisation’s commitment to expanding cricket’s reach in Africa, noting that investment in facilities, coaching, and competitive opportunities for young players is crucial for the continent’s future in international cricket.
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During discussions with Africa Cricket Association officials, Shah explored initiatives to enhance domestic leagues, improve coaching standards, and facilitate international exposure for African teams. These efforts aim to provide a more robust pathway for cricketers from the region to compete on the global stage.
The ICC Under-19 World Cup serves as a platform for emerging talent, and Shah’s attendance underscores the council’s dedication to promoting youth cricket. Observers noted that his visit could also strengthen partnerships between the ICC and African cricket boards, fostering long-term development projects.
The meeting and match attendance reflect the ICC’s broader strategy to globalise cricket while supporting member nations with tailored programmes to elevate standards, increase participation, and build a competitive pipeline of players from under-represented regions.
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