Former BCCI President Inderjit Singh Bindra Passes Away

Former BCCI president Inderjit Singh Bindra, regarded as one of the key architects of modern cricket marketing in India, passed away in New Delhi on January 26, 2026, at the age of 84. His administrative vision opened Indian cricket to global broadcasters, transformed revenue models, and permanently changed how the sport was consumed and commercialised in the country.

Why in News?

Former BCCI president Inderjit Singh Bindra died at the age of 84, prompting tributes across the cricketing world for his role in revolutionising cricket broadcasting and commercial growth in India.

Administrative Journey and Leadership Roles

Inderjit Singh Bindra had a long and influential career in cricket administration.

• He served as President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from 1993 to 1996.
• He led the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) for over three decades (1978–2014).
• His association with cricket administration began in 1975, steadily rising through state and national roles.
• In recognition of his contribution, the PCA stadium in Mohali was renamed IS Bindra Stadium in 2015.

1987 World Cup and Global Recognition

Bindra is best remembered for his role in bringing the 1987 Cricket World Cup to India.

• The tournament, officially known as the Reliance Cup, was the first World Cup hosted outside England.
• He worked closely with Jagmohan Dalmiya and NKP Salve to make this shift possible.
• The event demonstrated India’s organisational capability and commercial potential.
• This decision marked a turning point in cricket’s global power structure.

Breaking Doordarshan’’s Broadcasting Monopoly

One of Bindra’s most impactful contributions came in 1994, when he challenged the monopoly of Doordarshan in cricket broadcasting.

• He approached the Supreme Court of India, seeking open competition in sports broadcasting.
• The verdict allowed private and international broadcasters to enter the Indian market.
• Global companies like ESPN and TWI soon followed.
• This move laid the foundation for India becoming the largest cricket broadcasting market in the world.

Influence Beyond Indian Cricket

Bindra’s influence extended beyond India.

• He served as Principal Advisor to the International Cricket Council (ICC) during Sharad Pawar’s presidency.
• He played a role in appointing Haroon Lorgat as CEO of Cricket South Africa, though the decision was controversial.
• His global outlook helped professionalise cricket administration worldwide.

Tributes from the Cricketing World

Tributes poured in after his passing.

• ICC Chairman Jay Shah described him as a stalwart of Indian cricket administration, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
• Bindra is survived by his son and daughter.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. Inderjit Singh Bindra served as President of BCCI during which period?

A) 1987–1990
B) 1990–1993
C) 1993–1996
D) 1996–1999