After cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar, now Harbhajan Singh's name is in the news, being linked to the top post at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Tendulkar has already denied all the rumours, but the 2011 World Cup-winning spinner is yet to address the speculations
The Punjab-born cricketer came into the spotlight after the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) reportedly nominated the 45-year-old for a role in the upcoming BCCI elections. Harbhajan, who played 367 international matches for India, would be eligible to contest now that he has the support of a state body, which is a basic requirement for any candidate.
Over the years, the ruling BJP government has often leaned toward appointing celebrated sportspersons to top administrative roles in sports organisations. Former cricketers like Sourav Ganguly and Roger Binny have both held the BCCI president’s chair.
The elections will take place on September 28 which will decide the key positions like president, vice-president, secretary, joint secretary, and treasurer. But if past BCCI annual general meetings (AGMs) are any indication, it’s unlikely we’ll see major contests. Current office-bearers like Devajit Saikia (secretary), Prabhtej Singh Bhatia (treasurer), and Rohan Dessai (joint secretary) are all expected to continue in their roles.
Meanwhile, Friday, September 12, was the last date for state cricket associations to submit the names of their voting representatives. That final list is expected to be released on Saturday, September 13.
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.
Here’s what the full election timeline looks like:
Nominations: September 20–21
Scrutiny of nominations: September 22
Withdrawal deadline: September 23
Final list of candidates: Post September 23
Election Day: September 28