DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Jay Shah embarked on his role as the youngest chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday, amid ongoing discussions regarding the location for the upcoming Champions Trophy. This decision has yet to be confirmed by the governing body of the sport.

At just 36 years old, Shah was elected unanimously as the ICC chair in August, succeeding New Zealand’s Greg Barclay in the position. “It is an honor to assume the role of ICC chair, and I am thankful for the confidence and support received from the ICC directors and member boards,” Shah expressed in a statement from the ICC. He highlighted the current thrilling phase for cricket, particularly as preparations intensify for the LA28 Olympic Games, while also striving to enhance the sport’s inclusivity and engagement with global audiences.

Shah has extensive experience within the cricketing world, having previously held significant roles such as the chair of the ICC’s finance and commercial affairs committee, as well as president of the Asian Cricket Council. Moreover, he has served as the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

A standoff currently exists regarding Pakistan’s ability to host the Champions Trophy, a tournament set to begin in February. This situation follows a notification from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the ICC that its government has prohibited the cricket team from traveling to Pakistan for the eight-team event. Notably, India has not visited Pakistan since 2008, when it participated in the Asia Cup.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has articulated its desire to hold all matches of the Champions Trophy on its home soil and has stated it is unwilling to share hosting responsibilities. This stems from the fact that Pakistan’s team traveled to India for the 2023 World Cup.