IS Bindra, Former BCCI President and Indian Cricket Visionary, Passes Away at 84

Indian cricket mourns the loss of one of its most influential administrators as Inderjit Singh Bindra, former BCCI president, has passed away at the age of 84 in New Delhi. His contributions to the sport transformed Indian cricket from a regional passion into a global broadcasting powerhouse.

A Legacy of Leadership

Bindra served as the BCCI president from 1993 to 1996, a transformative period for Indian cricket. His administrative career spanned decades, with his tenure as Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) chief lasting a remarkable 36 years from 1978 to 2014.

His dedication to cricket administration in Punjab left an indelible mark on the region's cricketing infrastructure, most notably through the development of the PCA Stadium in Mohali, which was later named in his honor—a testament to his lasting impact on the sport.

Bringing the World Cup to India

One of Bindra's most significant achievements was his instrumental role in securing hosting rights for the 1987 Cricket World Cup. This marked a historic moment as the tournament was held outside the United Kingdom for the first time, signaling India's emergence as a major cricketing nation capable of hosting global events.

This milestone laid the groundwork for India's future as a premier destination for international cricket tournaments.

Revolutionizing Cricket Broadcasting

Perhaps Bindra's most far-reaching contribution came through his 1994 Supreme Court petition challenging Doordarshan's monopoly on cricket broadcasts. The favorable judgment that followed proved to be a watershed moment for Indian cricket.

This legal victory opened the doors for global broadcasters to enter the Indian market, ultimately transforming India into the sport's biggest television market. The commercial revolution that followed reshaped cricket's financial landscape and contributed significantly to making the BCCI one of the wealthiest sporting bodies in the world.

Tributes Pour In

The BCCI expressed its condolences, stating:

"The BCCI mourns the passing of former BCCI President - Mr IS Bindra. The Board's thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones."

ICC Chair and former BCCI secretary Jay Shah also paid tribute:

"Deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. I S Bindra, former BCCI president and a stalwart of Indian cricket administration. May his legacy inspire future generations. Om Shanti."

A Lasting Impact on Indian Cricket

Bindra's retirement from cricket administration in 2014 marked the end of an era, but his contributions continue to shape the sport. From infrastructure development to broadcasting rights, his vision helped establish the foundation upon which modern Indian cricket stands.

As the cricketing world remembers IS Bindra, his legacy serves as a reminder of how visionary leadership can transform a sport and an entire nation's relationship with it. The structures he helped build—both physical and institutional—will continue to benefit Indian cricket for generations to come.