BCCI to come under national sports bill: What it means for Indian cricket’s governing body

In a landmark move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to come under the ambit of the National Sports Governance Bill, 2025. A top Sports Ministry source confirmed on Tuesday, July 22, that the draft bill, unveiled by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, will now include the country’s richest sports body – a long-anticipated development as India eyes participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

A Game-Changer for Indian Sports Governance

The National Sports Bill aims to overhaul India’s sports administration with a focus on transparency, accountability, and athlete-centric reforms. Key provisions include mandatory Athletes’ Committees in all National Sports Federations (NSFs), gender representation in executive bodies, and the establishment of a National Sports Tribunal to resolve disputes swiftly. Recognised sports bodies will also come under the RTI Act, opening their operations to public scrutiny.

A new apex body, the National Sports Board (NSB), will take charge of granting recognition to NSFs and ensuring governance standards, bringing professionalism and autonomy into sports administration.

How the Bill Impacts BCCI

Though the BCCI does not rely on government funding, its inclusion under the Bill means it must adhere to age and tenure regulations for office bearers. Interestingly, the draft allows individuals up to 70 years of age at nomination to serve a full term, with a provision for those aged 70-75 to contest if international statutes permit.

This clause could see Roger Binny, who turned 70 on July 19, continue as BCCI President for another term. Previously, vice-president Rajeev Shukla was tipped to succeed him, but the Bill’s enactment in August may shift the equation.

The move signals a new era where even cricket’s most powerful board will be subject to reforms aimed at aligning Indian sports governance with global best practices.