ACC Meet: Host selection, media rights, and chairman post in spotlight

Asia Cup. (Photo Source: ACC)

In a recent turn of events, the Annual General Meetings (AGM) of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) are all set to unfold over the next two days in Bali, Indonesia. This two-day cricket conclave, scheduled for January 31, is drawing attention from cricket enthusiasts worldwide, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Jay Shah, in the spotlight.

The ACC, a cricketing powerhouse in Asia, will tackle crucial matters during the AGM, with a spotlight on the broadcast rights of the organization. The ACC’s flagship tournament, the Asia Cup, has made its rights a hot commodity in world cricket. Disney Star has been the rights holder for eight years, but the rapidly changing sports broadcasting landscape in India adds an element of unpredictability to the mix. Top broadcasters have been invited for a dinner on Tuesday, setting the stage for potential competitive bids.

Another puzzle for the ACC to solve is the venue for the next Asia Cup. As per the source, it’s been revealed that the upcoming season will be a Twenty20 format, and contenders for hosting include the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman. There’s a wrinkle about whether Associate members can host the championship, as a clause favours Full-member Asian nations. Despite this, the UAE has previously hosted events in 2018 and 2022, although India and Sri Lanka were the designated hosts.

While the official agenda sidesteps the election talk, whispers indicate that the leadership baton might be passed around. Currently holding the ACC presidency, Jay Shah’s potential shift to the International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman role is a talking point. The ACC meeting’s outcome could serve as a crystal ball, offering insights into the dynamic landscape of leadership roles in world cricket.

As we await the outcomes from Bali, cricket enthusiasts around the globe are buzzing with anticipation about the future of Asian cricket and its impact on the broader cricketing landscape.