The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is gearing up for another leadership change later this month, and all signs indicate that a legendary Indian cricketer, renowned for breaking multiple records during his career, could be the next BCCI president.
Informal Talks in England
According to a report by Dainik Jagran, informal discussions with the former cricketer took place during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England. A senior political leader is believed to have met the cricketing icon, exploring his willingness to step into the top role. While his exact response remains unknown, the move highlights the strong backing he enjoys from influential quarters.
Cricketers in Administration: A Growing Trend
If confirmed, this appointment will follow the pattern of former players stepping into cricket administration. In 2019, Sourav Ganguly became BCCI president, while 1983 World Cup winner Roger Binny succeeded him before stepping down recently after turning 70, in line with BCCI’s age-cap rules.
At present, Rajeev Shukla, the vice-president, is serving as the acting president. The official elections for key posts—including president, secretary, vice-president, joint secretary, treasurer, and IPL chairman—are scheduled for the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in the last week of September.
Athlete-Led Governance in Focus
The Indian government has long stressed the need for greater athlete representation in sports bodies. The potential appointment of a cricketing legend aligns with this shift, much like the elevation of P.T. Usha as president of the Indian Olympic Association.
Consensus Over Elections
Insiders suggest that the elections are unlikely to be contested. Much like previous terms, leadership roles are expected to be filled through consensus among stakeholders and political power brokers rather than direct competition.
- Joint Secretary Devajit Saikia is expected to retain his post, with his cumulative three-year tenure still permissible under BCCI’s constitution.
- Treasurer Prabhtej Bhatia and Joint Secretary Rohan Gauns Desai are also likely to continue in their roles.
The National Sports Governance Act, however, could change the rules in the future, but until it is implemented, the BCCI will function under its current framework.
The IPL Chairman Race
The election may also trigger shifts in other top roles. The position of IPL Chairman is drawing interest, with Sanjay Naik (former MCA secretary) and Rajeev Shukla emerging as front-runners. Should Shukla move into the IPL chairman’s chair, BJP leader Rakesh Tiwari, who currently heads the Bihar Cricket Association, could step in as vice-president.
Shukla’s own future depends on the timing of the National Sports Act. If enforced before the 2026 AGM, it could allow him to bypass the mandatory cooling-off period. His current tenure as VP began in 2020, leaving him with a year under the existing constitution.
What Lies Ahead
With consensus building and informal talks already underway, the cricketing fraternity is keenly awaiting the AGM later this month. If finalised, the appointment of a record-breaking Indian cricketer as BCCI president will mark another chapter in the growing trend of athletes leading Indian sports governance.
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