The Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack has criticised what it described as India’s growing political influence in world cricket, warning that the sport’s governance is becoming “increasingly Orwellian.”

In its 2026 edition, Wisden editor Lawrence Booth pointed to what he described as an unhealthy dominance by India in global cricket administration, noting that the International Cricket Council currently has Indian officials in key leadership roles, including chairman Jay Shah.

Wisden also described the Board of Control for Cricket in India as closely aligned with India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, highlighting concerns over increasing political involvement in cricket governance.

The publication cited examples including tensions during the 2025 Asia Cup between India and Pakistan, political messaging surrounding matches, and the withdrawal of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from an Indian Premier League deal amid diplomatic tensions.

Wisden warned that the growing politicisation of cricket risks undermining the sport’s governance, adding that global cricket is increasingly shaped by India’s influence and political considerations. (Newswire)

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