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December 22, 2024
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In a significant shift within the administrative framework of Indian cricket, Devajit Saikia has been named the acting secretary of the Board of Cricket for Control in India (BCCI), stepping into the role vacated by Jay Shah, who has assumed the position of International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman. This bringing to the forefront a figure known for his cricketing and administrative experience.
Devajit Saikia, a former first-class cricketer from Assam, was previously serving as the joint secretary of the BCCI. His elevation to the role of acting secretary was announced by BCCI president Roger Binny, who invoked clause 7(1)(d) of the BCCI constitution to delegate the secretarial duties to Saikia. This clause allows the president to appoint an acting official in the event of a vacancy or indisposition until a permanent replacement is established through the board’s regulatory process.
Saikia’s appointment came into effect on December 7, 2024, and he is expected to hold this position until September 2025, when the BCCI will likely hold elections for a permanent secretary. His role during this interim period will be crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of the board, especially given the significant responsibilities that come with managing India’s cricketing affairs.
Before his appointment, Saikia had already made a name for himself in cricket administration. He served as the secretary of the Assam Cricket Association (ACA), where he was instrumental in bringing infrastructural development to cricket in the state. His tenure saw the hosting of international matches at the ACA stadium in Guwahati, significantly raising the profile of cricket in Assam.
A former first-class player himself, Saikia represented Assam in Ranji Trophy, showcasing his understanding and passion for the game from both playing and administrative perspectives. His background in law, currently serving as the Advocate General of Assam, further complements his administrative capabilities, providing a unique blend of legal acumen and sports governance.
The appointment of Devajit Saikia as acting secretary has been welcomed with optimism by many within the cricketing community, particularly in the Northeast of India, where his influence and commitment to cricket are well-recognized. His appointment is seen not just as a step in administrative succession but also as a symbolic gesture towards recognizing talent from regions beyond traditional powerhouses of Indian cricket.
Saikia’s immediate tasks include navigating the complexities of domestic and international cricket schedules, player contracts, and ongoing reforms in cricket governance. His role will be pivotal in the strategic decisions regarding the future of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the development of women’s cricket in India, and BCCI’s international relations, especially in light of Jay Shah’s new role at the ICC.
Devajit Saikia’s appointment as the acting secretary of the BCCI is more than just an administrative change; it’s a narrative of growth, recognition, and the potential for new directions in Indian cricket administration. With his background in cricket, law, and administration, Saikia steps into this role with a broad support base, eager to see how will shape the future of cricket in India during his tenure.