BCCI President Roger Binny turned 70 on July 19, raising questions about his eligibility to remain in office, as the BCCI constitution — approved by the Supreme Court — disqualifies any office-bearer who crosses that age limit.
Initial reports indicated that Vice-President Rajeev Shukla might be appointed as interim president. However, according to the Hindustan Times, citing sources, Binny may continue in a caretaker role — without signing official documents — until a decision is made.
The situation may become more complex with the anticipated introduction of the National Sports Bill during the current Monsoon Session of Parliament. While the BCCI doesn’t rely on government funding, it is still classified under the National Sports Federation, which could bring it within the bill’s scope.
What does the proposed National Sports Bill say?
The bill proposes raising the maximum age limit for office-bearers of national sports federations from 70 to 75 years. It would allow individuals aged between 70 and 75 to run for office if international guidelines permit and the federation’s own rules don’t restrict it.
If the bill is passed into law, Binny may be eligible to remain BCCI President, especially since the ICC does not have an age cap for such roles.
According to a PTI report, Binny is expected to consult with BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and the board’s legal team to determine next steps.
As of now, the BCCI has not released an official statement. Senior board officials are returning from Singapore after the ICC Annual Conference. The PTI report notes the board is weighing whether to install Shukla temporarily for two months or wait for the new Sports Bill to be enacted.