After Sachin Tendulkar, it is now the turn of cricketer-turned-expert Harbhajan Singh, whose name is doing the rounds for the top position at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Tendulkar has already declined the offer, but the former India off-spinner is yet to confirm or deny the role, leading to massive speculation over his possible yes for the President role.
The news about Harbhajan being in the top spot has apparently gathered steam, with the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) nominating the expert, who has featured in 367 international matches across formats. However, the speculation will only clear once the nominations are officially filed, as only candidates backed by a state association are eligible to contest.
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Notably, the BJP ruling government, which has huge influence over the functioning of the BCCI, is known to prefer prominent sports persons for the pole positions in sports bodies. Sourav Ganguly and Roger Binny served in the President roles mainly due to the ruling party's player-first policy.
According to a Cricbuzz report, Harbhajan has not confirmed the speculation. However, the truth will likely be out in less than two weeks, when candidates are required to file nominations for the BCCI posts. According to BCCI electoral officer AK Joti, the nomination dates will be open from September 20 to 21, with the elections to be held on September 28. The elections will be held for positions of president, vice-president, secretary, joint secretary, and treasurer.
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BCCI elections unlikely to be held this year
However, according to IPL commissioner Arun Dhumal, the elections are likely to be held this time, due to the Asia Cup 2025 final on September 28. Incumbents Devajit Saikia, Prabhtej Singh Bhatia and Rohan Dessai are expected to continue as secretary, treasurer and joint secretary, respectively.
As per the election deadline, September 12 was the last date for the state associations to submit the candidates' names of their respective representatives who will attend the AGM, and if needed, to cast their votes. The names are expected to be announced on Saturday, September 13.
After the nominations are filed on September 20 and 21, scrutiny will be on September 22. Candidates will be allowed one day's time to withdraw their nominations on September 23, following which the final list of contestants will be announced. The election is set to be held on September 28.
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As per the electoral officer, the candidates will have to specify if they have held in the BCCI. "An Information Sheet from the Representative specifying all Elective Posts held by the Representative in the BCCI and/or any Full Member of the BCCI previously and/or currently, along with the Name of the Elective Posts and Tenures of such positions. The Information in this regard is to be submitted in the prescribed Form C, signed by the Representative and duly attested by a Notary/Oath Commissioner," says the notification.
