Devajit Saikia has been named the acting secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) by the president, Roger Binny, on December 7. Saikia’s appointment came after Jay Shah, the former BCCI secretary, took over the high-profile role of president at the International Cricket Council (ICC).
BCCI president Roger Binny utilized his constitutional authority to make the appointment, ensuring a smooth interim arrangement until a permanent secretary is selected under the board’s regulations. Saikia will take on this responsibility during the transitional phase.
Devajit Saikia named Acting BCCI Secretary as Jay Shah takes over as ICC Chairman
According to a PTI report, Roger Binny referenced clause 7(1)(d) of the BCCI constitution in a letter to Saikia, granting him secretarial powers. The BCCI President expressed his confidence in Saikia, saying he has full confidence that he will carry out his responsibilities with excellence and confidence.
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Roger Binny wrote to Devajit Saikia as quoted by PTI: “The president shall, in the event of vacancy or indisposition, delegate the functions to another office bearer until the vacancy is duly filled up or indisposition ceases. Accordingly, I delegate the functions of secretary to you till the post is filled up by processes laid down as per BCCI rules and regulations. I am confident you will perform the duties to the best of your abilities and with aplomb.”
It is being said that Devajit Saikia is set to serve as the acting BCCI secretary until September 2025, which will provide enough time for the completion of procedures necessary to appoint a permanent secretary under the board’s regulations.
So as reported in this space
The @BCCI president #RogerBinny has used his constitutional powers to appoint #jointsecretary Devajit Saikia as new “Acting secretary” of the board.
Saikia is expected to continue till Sept. On expected lines he will be India Representative @ICC… https://t.co/XBh3TDVYlQ— Kushan Sarkar (@kushansarkar) December 7, 2024
The newly appointed acting secretary of the BCCI hails from Assam and brings a rich cricketing background as a former first-class player and currently holds the position of BCCI joint secretary. Alongside his cricketing administration role, Saikia also serves as the Advocate General of Assam.
Jay Shah pays visit to the ICC Headquarters in Dubai
Meanwhile, Jay Shah made his first visit to the ICC Headquarters in Dubai on December 5 as the new ICC Chairman, where he engaged with ICC Board Directors and staff. Shah replaced Greg Barclay, who had served as ICC Chair since 2020, as the new chairman of the world’s governing body.
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Jay Shah stated, “This visit provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with my colleagues on the ICC Board, where we discussed the initial roadmap and strategies to shape the future of this incredible sport. I was equally delighted to meet with the dedicated ICC team working tirelessly behind the scenes to propel cricket forward.”
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule stuck amid the India-Pakistan dispute and logistical issues
On the other hand, ICC’s plans to release the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 schedule have been delayed due to ongoing disagreements between India and Pakistan, with the BCCI refusing to allow Team India to cross the border for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
While the PCB has reportedly agreed to a hybrid model as a compromise, unresolved logistical challenges continue to lead to delays. According to reports, these logistical concerns might only be addressed during an ICC board meeting if it is necessary.
Additionally, the ICC is awaiting feedback from broadcasters, which is another factor contributing to the delay in finalizing and announcing the fixtures of the Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be played in February-March next year.