The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing for a crucial transition in leadership as its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 28, 2025 approaches. With Roger Binny stepping down after turning 70 — the constitutional age limit for an office-bearer — the race for the next BCCI President has entered its final stretch. Speculation, power talks, and behind-the-scenes discussions in Delhi are shaping the big decision, expected to be made in the coming days.
The Importance of the BCCI President’s Role
The BCCI President is the highest position in Indian cricket administration. Though largely considered an honorary post, it carries immense prestige, power, and influence due to the popularity of cricket in India and the financial dominance of the BCCI globally. The president is elected by state associations at the AGM, but consensus-building and political consultations often play a decisive role.
When Will the Decision Be Made?
- The BCCI AGM is scheduled for September 28, 2025.
- However, the key decision about the presidency is likely to be finalized earlier, with September 20, 2025 earmarked for a crucial meeting in Delhi.
- This meeting will be held at the residence of Home Minister Amit Shah, where top BCCI officials and ruling BJP leaders are expected to shape the leadership choice.
Likely Candidates for the Top Post
Over the past weeks, several names have emerged in the race for the BCCI presidency.
| Candidate | Profile | Current Role/Status |
|---|---|---|
| Sourav Ganguly | Former India captain, ex-BCCI president | CAB representative for AGM |
| Harbhajan Singh | Veteran spinner with 100+ Tests | PCA nominee for first BCCI AGM |
| Raghuram Bhatt | Former India Test cricketer | KSCA representative |
| Kiran More | Ex-India wicketkeeper and selector | Strong contender, backed by reports |
| Rajeev Shukla | Senior administrator, BCCI vice-president | Acting president after Binny’s exit |
Unanimous Verdict on the Cards
IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal has hinted that the election may not see voting at all. Instead, a unanimous appointment is expected:
“I don’t think there will be any elections. It would be done unanimously,” Dhumal said in a recent interview.
This indicates that state associations, under central guidance, are likely to agree on one name without contest.
Role of BJP and Government Influence
While the BJP-led government does not directly interfere in the daily operations of sports bodies, it plays a decisive role in ensuring that accomplished former players or trusted administrators head national sporting bodies. This has been the trend across organizations like the Indian Olympic Association, Hockey India, and the All India Football Federation.
In the past, the BJP backed Sourav Ganguly in 2019 and Roger Binny in 2022. The same pattern is expected this year with another high-profile cricketer likely to take charge.
Other Key BCCI Roles
- Secretary: Devajit Saikia (Assam) continues.
- Treasurer: Prabhtej Singh Bhatia (Chhattisgarh) continues.
- Vice-President & IPL Chairmanship: Still open; clarity expected soon.
- New Selectors: The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) is currently interviewing candidates for men’s, women’s, and junior selection panels.
Sachin Tendulkar Rumours Denied
Amid rumours, Sachin Tendulkar’s management issued an official statement denying any involvement in the BCCI presidency race. This clears speculation that the batting legend could be a surprise choice.
What Happens Next?
- September 19, 2025 – Final electoral roll released. State associations can alter their nominees until then.
- September 20, 2025 – Key meeting in Delhi expected to finalize the consensus candidate.
- September 28, 2025 – BCCI AGM where the new president and office-bearers will be officially confirmed.
Conclusion
As the suspense builds, names like Kiran More, Sourav Ganguly, Harbhajan Singh, Raghuram Bhatt, and Rajeev Shukla remain at the center of discussions. While political backing and consensus will play a vital role, the strong trend of former cricketers heading the board suggests that the next BCCI president will once again be someone with a rich cricketing background.
