India’s Chess wizard and the first Grandmaster Vishwanathan Anand handed the “Special Recognition Game Changer” award to the former BCCI secretary, now ICC chief Jay Shah. This award is given for contribution to Indian cricket and sports Globally.

Jay Shah was honored with the award at the Sportstar Aces Awards 2025. The award acknowledges Mr. Shah’s transformative contributions to Indian cricket and the sport globally. From his tenure as BCCI Secretary to becoming the youngest-ever ICC Chair, his leadership has been pivotal in shaping cricket’s future. The award was presented to him by chess grandmaster Viswanathan Anand at an event held at Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai.

Mr. Shah’s commitment to pay parity which has long been an awaited measure in the field of sports, the launch of the Women’s Premier League last year, the National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence, the initiative of organ donation ahead of the 3rd ODI match of India against England at Ahmedabad have been some key initiatives that have pushed for an inclusive and expansive cricketing landscape. The recognition is a testament to his consistent endeavours in promoting the sport across levels, and for all.