Record-Breaking Indian Cricketer Likely to Be Next BCCI President: Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is gearing up for a significant leadership change later this month, with strong indications pointing to the appointment of a legendary Indian cricketer as the next president. According to a report by Dainik Jagran, informal discussions have already been held with the former player—renowned for breaking numerous records during his illustrious career.

This move, if finalized, would continue the trend of cricketers taking the reins at the administrative level—a precedent first set in 2019 when Sourav Ganguly was appointed BCCI president, followed by 1983 World Cup winner Roger Binny.

BINNY STEPS DOWN; SHUKLA STEPS IN (Temporarily)

Roger Binny, who turned 70 in July, has officially vacated the role due to the BCCI’s age limit regulation, which bars individuals over the age of 70 from holding office. With his exit now confirmed, Vice-President Rajeev Shukla has taken over as acting president until official elections are held.

The BCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled for the last week of September, will witness elections for several key positions including:

President

Secretary

Vice-President

Joint Secretary

Treasurer

IPL Chairman

ENGLAND MEETING FUELS SPECULATION

The buzz around the cricketer’s potential elevation intensified during the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England. A senior political leader reportedly met the former Indian star during the event to explore his interest in the top post.

Although the cricketer’s response—whether affirmative or reserved—remains undisclosed, the outreach signals serious intent from influential stakeholders. The central government’s emphasis on greater athlete representation in sports governance adds further weight to the development. This follows a broader trend, as seen with Olympic legend P.T. Usha heading the Indian Olympic Association.

SMOOTH SAILING EXPECTED: CONSENSUS OVER CONTEST

According to insiders, the upcoming elections are expected to be unanimous rather than contested. Much like in previous years, key appointments are likely to be finalized through consensus among stakeholders and political influencers, rather than through electoral competition.

CURRENT OFFICE BEARERS LIKELY TO CONTINUE

Despite the anticipated leadership change at the top, most existing office bearers are expected to retain their posts:

Devajit Saikia (Joint Secretary) – Eligible for continuation, as his cumulative tenure across roles is within the constitutional limits.

Prabhtej Bhatia (Treasurer) and Rohan Gauns Desai (Joint Secretary) – Also expected to continue, given that no new governance mandates are in force yet.

LOOMING REFORMS: NATIONAL SPORTS GOVERNANCE ACT

While the upcoming National Sports Governance Act could bring major changes in how sports bodies like the BCCI are run, it has not yet come into effect. Until then, the elections and appointments will proceed under the current BCCI constitution.

BATTLE FOR IPL CHAIRMAN AND RIPPLE EFFECTS

The race for the IPL Chairman post is heating up, with prominent names like:

Sanjay Naik (former MCA Secretary)

Rajeev Shukla (current acting BCCI President)

Should Shukla choose to shift focus to the IPL Chairmanship, it would leave the vice-president position vacant. In such a scenario, Rakesh Tiwari, BJP leader and President of the Bihar Cricket Association, is emerging as a strong contender.

Shukla's long-term future within the BCCI may also hinge on the timing of the National Sports Act. If the law is enacted before the 2026 AGM, it might allow him to avoid the mandatory cooling-off period. His current term began in 2020, giving him one more year under the existing rules.

CONCLUSION: A CRICKETER AT THE HELM?

As the cricketing and political circles await confirmation, the potential appointment of one of Indian cricket’s biggest icons as the next BCCI President could mark a significant moment in the sport's governance. With the AGM just weeks away, all eyes will be on whether this legendary figure agrees to step into the leadership spotlight.