ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlights power of sports on International Olympic Day
New Delhi, June 23
International Cricket Council Chairman Jay Shah marked International Olympic Day by extending support to the International Olympic Committee's initiative aimed at promoting health, well-being, and community engagement through sport.
Jay Shah highlighted the global reach and unifying power of sport, particularly cricket, which he said has the ability to inspire and empower millions across the world.
"On the International Olympic Day, we are fully behind the initiative by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to harness the power of sport to promote health, well-being, and community engagement. With more than 2 billion fans around the world, Cricket has the ability to unite, inspire and empower at an unparalleled scale. Wishing everyone a happy Olympic Day and look forward to celebrating with all of you the Olympic spirit that motivates us to move, play, and thrive," ICC Chairman Jay Shah shared a post on X.
For those unversed, International Olympic Day is observed worldwide on June 23 to mark the establishment of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the revival of the modern Olympic Games. First introduced in 1948, the day encourages physical fitness, inclusivity, and the Olympic principles of excellence, friendship, and respect.
Last month, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya attended the National Sports Federation Conclave 2026, which brought together representatives from 37 National Sports Federations (NSFs), including the Indian Olympic Association, to deliberate on India's future sporting roadmap and preparations for major international events, including the Commonwealth Games 2026, Asian Games 2026 and Summer Olympics 2028, according to a press release.
Addressing the conclave, Union Sports Minister Mandaviya said, "The National Sports Federation Conclave marks a coordinated step towards India's preparation for upcoming global sporting events."
Secretary (Sports) Hari Ranjan Rao highlighted the importance of collective responsibility and long-term planning in achieving India's sporting ambitions.
"The nation that dreams big, prepares bigger; today's discussions will shape India's sporting future for 2036," he said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Jay Shah's message is nice and all, but let's be honest—cricket dominates everything in India. Olympic Day should be about promoting ALL sports. We've got talent in wrestling, shooting, archery, but they don't get the same visibility. The 2036 Olympics dream is ambitious, but we need serious investment in infrastructure and coaching now, not just press releases. 🇮🇳
As a cricket fan, I appreciate Jay Shah's global vision. Cricket in the Olympics would be a game-changer! But the article also highlights India's broader sports strategy. The Sports Minister's conclave is a step in the right direction. We need to prepare for 2028 and 2036 with a long-term roadmap. Har ek khel ko mauka do! (Give every sport a chance!)
Olympic Day is a reminder that sports build character and community. Jay Shah's post is inspiring, but I wish there was more emphasis on women's sports and rural participation. Our village-level talent needs proper scouting and support. The 'dream big, prepare bigger' quote is nice, but let's see concrete plans for 2036. Fingers crossed! 🤞
Cricket unites billions—that's undeniable. But International Olympic Day should also celebrate lesser-known sports. India's performance in Olympics has been improving, but we still lag in medals per capita. The 2036 bid is exciting, but infrastructure and corruption in sports bodies need to be addressed first. Shah sahab, kuchh toh karo!
Love the Olympic spirit! Jay
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