Leadership change on the horizon
The BCCI is preparing for another leadership transition as its Annual General Meeting (AGM) approaches later this month. With Roger Binny stepping down after turning 70, attention has shifted to the presidency — and a legendary Indian cricketer is emerging as the frontrunner, according to a report by Dainik Jagran.
If confirmed, the move would continue the trend of former players leading the board. Sourav Ganguly’s appointment in 2019 and Binny’s tenure reinforced this shift, reflecting the government’s wider push for athlete-led governance across sports.
Informal discussions already underway
Reports suggest early conversations have taken place with the record-breaking cricketer during India’s tour of England, where senior political figures were also involved. While it remains unclear whether he has formally agreed, his potential appointment is being viewed as a natural continuation of BCCI’s approach to leadership.
The central government has emphasized giving sportspersons bigger roles in national bodies, with former Olympian P.T. Usha heading the Indian Olympic Association. Installing a high-profile cricketer as BCCI president would align with that direction.
Elections expected to be unanimous
Much like recent cycles, this election is unlikely to see any real contest. Instead, insiders anticipate a consensus outcome, shaped by influential stakeholders and political alignment.
Rajeev Shukla, currently vice-president, has stepped in as acting president. However, he is expected to be repositioned, with speculation linking him to the IPL chairman’s post. In that case, Bihar Cricket Association president and BJP leader Rakesh Tiwary could become vice-president.
Continuity in key positions
Beyond the presidency, continuity is expected in most senior roles. Joint secretary Devajit Saikia, who has served three years cumulatively, is set to retain his post under the current BCCI constitution. Treasurer Prabhtej Bhatia and joint secretary Rohan Gauns Desai are also likely to continue.
Meanwhile, the IPL chairmanship could see a contest between Shukla and former Mumbai Cricket Association secretary Sanjay Naik. Shukla’s long-term future may depend on whether the National Sports Governance Act is implemented before the 2026 AGM, as it could exempt him from a mandatory cooling-off break.
Binny’s exit final
Binny, who celebrated his 70th birthday in July, is now ineligible to hold office under BCCI’s age-cap rules. His departure leaves a vacancy at the very top, and the stage is set for one of Indian cricket’s biggest icons — a player who has ‘broken’ and ‘set’ numerous records — to step into the role of BCCI president.
