Rajeev Shukla’s BCCI Presidency cancelled; Indian Government takes board under its wings before Asia Cup 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to be included under the National Sports Governance Bill, which will be introduced in Parliament on Wednesday. According to India Today, the BCCI operates independently and does not receive government funding, but its inclusion has been expected.

On Tuesday, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports introduced the draft Sports Bill for reforms to India’s sports system. The timing coincides with Board President Roger Binny turning 70 on July 19, which means he has reached the age limit. He may soon be required to step down, according to the board constitution.

BCCI to Come Under National Sports Bill

The bill is set to bring the BCCI under the jurisdiction of the Sports Ministry by officially recognizing it as a National Sports Federation (NSF).

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Until 2019, the Indian Board was not classified as an NSF, though it came under the Right to Information (RTI) Act in 2020. With the new bill in place, the Indian Cricket Board will automatically fall under the category of an NSF, and all rules and regulations set by the Sports Ministry will be applicable.

"The Board of Control for Cricket in India will come under the ambit of the National Sports Bill. While the BCCI does not rely on government funding, its inclusion was widely anticipated, especially with Indian cricket teams set to participate in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics," a top Sports Ministry source confirmed to India Today on Tuesday, July 22.

Roger Binny Can Complete His Term as BCCI President Without Legal Barriers

The National Sports Bill is expected to raise the maximum age limit for office-bearers in all NSFs from 70 to 75 years. Individuals between 70 and 75 will be eligible to contest elections and hold positions, provided there are no conflicting rules from international bodies or specific federation bylaws.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) does not impose an age limit, and the Bill’s approval would clear the way for Roger Binny to complete his term as BCCI president without legal barriers.

Binny, who recently turned 70, is reportedly consulting the secretary Devajit Saikia, and the board’s legal team to assess his options. However, the Indian Cricket Board 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 and is currently on a family vacation in Thailand, according to reports.

Sports Ministry Unveils Draft National Sports Governance Bill

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has unveiled the Draft National Sports Governance Bill, 2025, to bring reforms to the way sports bodies and NSFs operate in India. The legislation is designed to enhance transparency, prioritize athlete welfare, and incorporate international standards.

This move comes after years of reform efforts aimed at promoting ethical practices, safeguarding athletes’ rights, and fostering a professional, dispute-free sporting environment.

The bill also seeks to align India’s governance model with the Olympic and Paralympic Charters, strengthening the country's chances of hosting major global events, including a potential bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.

For the first time, athletes will play a central role in shaping sports policy. All NSFs, including the Indian Olympic Association and the National Paralympic Committee, will be required to establish Athletes’ Committees.

Also read: Asia Cup 2025- BCCI President chair vacant as Roger Binny flies away to Thailand