Confusion has gripped Indian cricket administration circles after BCCI President Roger Binny celebrated his 70th birthday on Saturday, July 19, officially breaching the age limit set by the BCCI constitution for holding office. As per the Supreme Court-approved BCCI constitution, no office-bearer can continue beyond the age of 70—a rule that, technically, disqualifies Binny from remaining in the post.
According to the constitution (Page 30), turning 70 results in automatic disqualification from office. That would mean Vice-President Rajeev Shukla should immediately take over as interim president. However, insiders close to Binny argue that since the BCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled for September, he can continue until then without signing any formal documents or making executive decisions.
Sports Bill May Change the Game
Adding complexity to the situation is the impending Sports Governance Bill, which is expected to be introduced in Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session. The proposed legislation, spearheaded by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, could override existing constitutions of national sports federations, including the BCCI.
Notably, the draft of the Sports Bill does not impose a strict age limit for office-bearers, potentially allowing them to continue up to the age of 75. If passed before the BCCI AGM, the bill could allow Binny to legally retain his presidency without conflict.
“The Sports Governance Bill is likely to override the constitutions of all national sports federations,” said a source familiar with the matter.
Silence from BCCI, Binny on Vacation
So far, the BCCI has not issued an official statement regarding Binny’s position. With many top officials attending the ICC Annual Conference in Singapore, no immediate clarification has been provided.
Binny, who recently returned to Bengaluru after attending the Lord’s Test in London, is currently on a private holiday in Thailand to celebrate his milestone birthday. Family members, including his daughters and grandchildren from Australia, are said to have joined him on a secluded island resort.
Attempts to contact Binny for comment were unsuccessful, and sources suggest clarity could emerge in the coming days, particularly once key officials return to India.
What’s Next?
The spotlight now shifts to three key moments:
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Return of BCCI top brass from Singapore
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Progress of the Sports Governance Bill in Parliament
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The BCCI AGM scheduled for September 2025
If the Sports Bill passes before the AGM, it may legally enable Roger Binny to continue in his role. If not, the current constitutional mandate could result in Rajeev Shukla assuming the presidency—at least temporarily.
As Indian cricket continues its transformation both on and off the field, the coming weeks promise to be pivotal for the sport’s governance and leadership.