Why Roger Binny may not step down for now as BCCI chief despite turning 70

Dubai: Roger Binny, President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), turned 70 on July 19, sparking confusion about his eligibility to continue in the role. According to the BCCI constitution, any office-bearer who crosses the age of 70 is no longer eligible to remain in office.

Binny, a key member of India’s historic 1983 ODI World Cup-winning team, took over as BCCI President in 2022, succeeding former India captain Sourav Ganguly. The constitution also states that in the president’s absence, the vice-president will assume responsibilities—meaning Rajeev Shukla could step in as interim president if Binny steps down.

However, with the BCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for September, there is speculation that Binny may continue as a caretaker president until then, pending a formal decision on his successor.

In the meantime, the Union Sports Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, is expected to introduce the National Sports Bill during the current Monsoon Session of Parliament. The proposed legislation reportedly includes raising the maximum age limit for office-bearers of national sports federations from 70 to 75. If passed, this could legally allow individuals between 70 and 75 to contest elections and hold office—provided there are no restrictions under international rules or the governing body’s own by-laws.

As the International Cricket Council (ICC) does not impose an age limit on office-bearers, a change in Indian law would remove any legal barrier for Binny to continue in his role and even serve another term.

Reports suggest Binny plans to consult with BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and the board’s legal team to assess his options. The BCCI has not yet released an official statement on the matter.

Binny was recently spotted at Lord’s during the third Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy between India and England.