BCCI AGM in September last week will decide the new president.
All eyes will be on the BCCI Annual General Meeting at the end of this month with a few top posts, including that of president and IPL chairman, up for grabs.
According to a report published in Dainik Jagran, a legendary Indian cricketer known for shattering multiple records during his playing days, is being considered for the presidency role.
If finalised, this move will keep up the trend of cricketers assuming leadership roles within the Indian board. The precedent was set in 2019 when former India skipper Sourav Ganguly took charge as the BCCI president, followed by 1983 World Cup winner Roger Binny.
Recently, Binny had to relinquish the position after reaching the 70-year age limit imposed by BCCI regulations.
The report further stated that informal discussions have already taken place with the former Indian cricketer during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in England.
A senior political figure is understood to have met the cricketing great in England to discuss the key post. While the former player’s response remains unclear, the move suggests serious intent from influential quarters.
The central government has long emphasized increased athlete representation in sports bodies, so the potential appointment of a high-profile cricketer aligns with this broader trend. Currently, former sprinter P.T. Usha heads the Indian Olympic Association, further highlighting this shift toward athlete-led governance.
The report also claimed that elections for BCCI roles are unlikely to be contested. Akin to previous terms, selections are likely to be unanimous, shaped by consensus among major stakeholders and political power players.
Devajit Saikia, who has completed three years cumulatively as joint secretary (2 years and three months) and secretary (nine months), is expected to retain his post. So would joint secretary Rohan Gauns Desai and Prabhtej Bhatia, who are into their first year as office bearers.
For IPL chairman's post, former Mumbai Cricket Association secretary Sanjay Naik and current BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla are the leading contenders although nothing has been finalized yet.
If Shukla once again becomes IPL chairman, Bihar Cricket Association president and BJP leader from the state Rakesh Tiwary could become a contender for BCCI vice-presidency.