In a landmark appointment that signals a strategic shift in global cricket leadership, Sanjog Gupta has been named the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the International Cricket Council (ICC). The decision, announced in July 2025, has created buzz not just across cricketing nations but also in corporate and media circles, owing to Gupta’s non-traditional background in broadcasting and sports business rather than cricket administration.
So, who exactly is Sanjog Gupta, and why is the ICC placing its future in his hands? Here’s a comprehensive look at the education, career, and life of the new global cricket boss.
🎓 Early Life and Education
Sanjog Gupta hails from India and has been regarded as one of the sharpest minds in sports media. While exact details of his early schooling remain private, Gupta pursued his higher education at Delhi University, one of India’s premier academic institutions. He was known to be a keen debater and an articulate speaker, laying the groundwork for a future where communication and strategy would become central to his career.
Though not a professional cricketer, Sanjog’s deep passion for the sport was evident even in his college years, where he often engaged in analytical discussions on cricket strategy, policy, and broadcasting innovation.
📺 The Rise in Sports Broadcasting
Sanjog Gupta first gained major attention as a media executive at Star Sports, India’s leading sports broadcaster. Over the years, he held various strategic and leadership roles, most notably as Head of Sports at Disney Star, overseeing everything from programming and content development to major broadcasting deals.
Key Contributions at Star Sports:
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Played a pivotal role in the launch and branding of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Star.
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Introduced multi-language commentary, transforming the way Indian cricket was consumed across regional audiences.
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Spearheaded digital integration with Hotstar, helping cricket reach massive OTT audiences globally.
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Conceptualized cricket as a “non-stop entertainment product”, blending analytics, storytelling, and high-tech visuals.
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Pushed for innovations in women’s cricket and grassroots visibility.
Gupta’s tenure marked the commercial explosion of Indian cricket broadcasting, with record-breaking viewership and sponsorship revenues.
🏏 Transition into Cricket Governance
Though he was primarily seen as a media executive, Gupta had increasingly begun participating in cricket governance conversations through roles in:
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Broadcast rights negotiations with the ICC and national boards
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Cricket strategy panels, especially around tournament formats and digital growth
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Advocacy for fan-first broadcasting models, shaping policy with the BCCI and other cricket boards
His sharp business acumen and deep understanding of fan behavior positioned him as more than just a TV executive—he became an architect of modern cricket consumption.
It’s this crossover appeal that caught the attention of the ICC’s board, particularly as the game enters a data-heavy, AI-integrated, globally commercialized era.
🪑 Appointed as ICC CEO: What It Means
Gupta replaces Geoff Allardice and becomes one of the few ICC chiefs from a non-playing background. His appointment represents a strategic pivot:
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From bureaucratic governance to brand-driven expansion
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From traditional tournament models to digital-first cricket ecosystems
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From focusing on just the game to enhancing the global cricket economy
“Sanjog Gupta brings a unique blend of strategy, storytelling, and sport. He understands where cricket is going and how it must evolve,”
— ICC Chairman Greg Barclay
📈 Priorities Ahead for Sanjog Gupta
As ICC CEO, Gupta will have to balance cricket’s heritage with its future in a hyper-connected, competitive entertainment landscape.
Here are some of his expected focus areas:
1. Global Expansion of Cricket
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Boosting cricket’s reach in non-traditional markets like the USA, Germany, and Japan
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Supporting T20 and women’s leagues across emerging regions
2. Digital Transformation
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Integrating AI, AR, and VR into fan experiences
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Enhancing ICC’s direct-to-consumer platforms for streaming and merchandise
3. Revenue Diversification
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Reducing dependency on India-centric broadcasting rights
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Creating subscription-based models and blockchain-driven fan engagement
4. Women’s Cricket and Inclusivity
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Equal investments in marketing, broadcasting, and prize pools
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Pushing for parity in cricketing pathways for men and women
5. Scheduling and Sustainability
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Managing the crowded international calendar
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Ensuring player well-being amid rising league demands
🙌 Industry Reactions
The reaction to Gupta’s appointment has been mixed but largely positive:
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Media executives call it a “masterstroke,” praising his knowledge of global viewership trends.
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Former cricketers have urged that “cricketing merit” not be ignored in decision-making.
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Investors and sponsors are enthusiastic, seeing Gupta as someone who can “monetize cricket like never before.”
Even rival boards like the ECB and Cricket Australia have reportedly welcomed the fresh approach.
🌍 A Global Visionary at the Helm
Gupta’s appointment reflects the ICC’s recognition that cricket is no longer just a sport—it’s a global media product, a brand, and a business. In Sanjog Gupta, the council sees a leader who understands the pulse of the modern fan, the demands of digital platforms, and the intricacies of monetizing cricket without compromising its soul.
🧾 Quick Profile: Sanjog Gupta
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Full Name: Sanjog Gupta
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Nationality: Indian
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Current Position: CEO, International Cricket Council (2025–)
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Past Roles: Head of Sports, Disney Star (Star Sports)
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Education: Delhi University (Liberal Arts, Media & Communication)
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Known For: Transforming sports broadcasting in India; innovating IPL and World Cup coverage
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Strengths: Media strategy, digital transformation, global market development
FAQs
Q1: Is Sanjog Gupta the first Indian to become ICC CEO?
Yes, Gupta is among the first Indians—and one of the youngest media executives—to take on this global cricketing leadership role.
Q2: Does he have a cricketing background?
While not a professional player, Gupta has deep knowledge of the game and has worked closely with players, commentators, and boards for over a decade.
Q3: What does his appointment mean for Indian cricket?
It’s expected to strengthen India’s influence in global cricket, but Gupta is also known for thinking globally and has a track record of advocating for cricket’s expansion beyond traditional market.
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