Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), has set an ambitious target for India to win 100 medals at the 2036 Olympic Games. Speaking at the Run for Girl Child Half Marathon 2.0 in Surat, Shah urged India to bid for the 2036 Olympics and expressed his confidence that the nation can achieve this ambitious goal if it successfully hosts the event. He also stated his belief that at least 10 of those 100 medals would come from the state of Gujarat.

Shah emphasized that India must aim higher in its sporting ambitions, especially after the nation secured the rights to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing the Commonwealth Games to India, marking the country's first hosting of the event in two decades. Shah sees the Commonwealth Games as a stepping stone towards hosting the Olympics.

"The Prime Minister has brought the Commonwealth Games to India in 2030, but we shouldn't stop there," Shah said. "We must also bring the 2036 Olympics to India. We won eight medals in the 2024 Olympics, but I want to tell you all that eight medals won't be enough in 2036. We have to win at least 100 medals. Of those 100 medals, we will win at least 10 from Gujarat. I have complete faith in that".

In reference to the 2024 Olympic Games, Shah said that the eight medals won by Indian athletes are encouraging, demonstrating that Indian athletes can win medals at the Olympic Games. However, he stressed that this number is insufficient and that Indian athletes should target a minimum of 100 medals if the country is to successfully host the Olympic Games in 2036.

Shah also reflected on India's recent success in international cricket. He recalled his disappointment after India's loss in the 2023 ODI World Cup final but noted his prediction that the team would turn things around in 2024. His prediction proved accurate as India won the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 and subsequently the Champions Trophy.

While making his address, Shah stated that India won eight medals at the 2024 Olympics; however, the actual tally was six. India finished 71st on the medal table. Team India had a strong showing with several near-podium finishes. A total of 117 athletes represented India at the Paris Games, including participants in team sports.

Shah's ambitious target of 100 medals highlights the significant challenge ahead for India.