Cricket Administrator Rajeev Shukla Steps Forward as Temporary BCCI President Following Roger Binny's Resignation
Rajeev Shukla, a seasoned cricket administrator and veteran political figure, is set to take charge as the interim President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) by July 2025.
Shukla's extensive career in cricket administration spans decades, with roles such as the Secretary of the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association and the Chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2011 to 2018. He made history by being elected as the Vice-President of the BCCI in 2020 and was re-elected in 2022.
With Roger Binny set to reach the age cap of 70 years stipulated in the BCCI's governing rules, Shukla's interim term is expected to provide administrative continuity and maintain diplomatic balance within the board and externally with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and state associations.
Under Shukla's interim leadership, the BCCI is likely to continue focusing on strengthening the domestic cricket structure, India's preparations for the upcoming ICC tournaments, IPL expansion, and international scheduling. The board may also consider amending certain rules in the future, particularly regarding tenure and age-related criteria.
Shukla's media presence and political background are expected to help the BCCI navigate complex global cricket politics. His organizational skills, media savvy, and ability to maintain relationships across the political and cricketing spectrum are qualities that have served him well in his various roles.
In addition to his cricket administration roles, Shukla is also a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha representing the Indian National Congress party. His political career runs alongside his cricket administration roles, extending his influence and presence in both arenas.
The transition of BCCI leadership is expected to occur in July 2025, with elections for a permanent BCCI president potentially held at the next Annual General Meeting. The BCCI constitution states that "No individual above the age of 70 years can hold a post in the BCCI."
Shukla's appointment as interim president comes from his long-time presence in the cricketing ecosystem, with roles such as Former Chairman of the IPL Governing Council and long-time member of BCCI's top decision-making committees. His involvement extends beyond administration, as evidenced by his cricket diplomacy and engagements, including presenting his book "Scars of 1947" to King Charles III during the Indian cricket team's visit to St. James's Palace in London.
References: [1] [India Today](https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/rajeev-shukla-to-take-over-as-bcci-president-after-roger-binny-steps-down-1906105-2022-10-20) [2] [The Indian Express](https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/rajeev-shukla-to-take-over-as-interim-bcci-president-after-roger-binny-steps-down-8818055/) [3] [ESPN Cricinfo](https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/32444888/rajeev-shukla-named-bcci-president-roger-binny-steps-down) [4] [The Hindu](https://www.thehindu.com/sports/cricket/rajeev-shukla-to-take-over-as-bcci-president-after-roger-binny-steps-down/article66275802.ece) [5] [NDTV](https://www.ndtv.com/sports/rajeev-shukla-to-take-over-as-interim-bcci-president-after-roger-binny-steps-down-2684466)
Shukla's political background may aid the BCCI in navigating the world of global cricket politics. Despite his focus on domestic and professional cricket matters, his understanding of the political landscape could prove beneficial.
Given Shukla's concurrent career in sports and politics, discussions about international politics and sports diplomacy are bound to surface in the world arena.
