NEW DELHI: Former BCCI president and veteran cricket administrator Inderjit Singh Bindra passed away on Sunday evening at his residence in New Delhi. He was 84 years old.
A Sudden Decline in Health
According to multiple reports, Bindra breathed his last around 6:30 pm after his health deteriorated earlier in the afternoon. Close associates revealed that Bindra had lunch at home when he suddenly felt unwell. Despite immediate medical attention, his condition worsened rapidly, and he could not be revived.
His son Amar Bindra and his daughter were present in Delhi at the time of his passing, providing comfort during his final moments. The family has announced that his cremation will take place at the Lodhi crematorium in New Delhi on Monday, where friends, colleagues, and cricket enthusiasts are expected to pay their final respects.
A Towering Figure in Indian Cricket Administration
Bindra was one of the most influential administrators Indian cricket has ever seen. He served as the president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from 1993 to 1996 and played a pivotal role in shaping the modern administrative structure of the sport in the country.
Visionary Leadership and Firm Decision-Making
Known for his firm decision-making and long-term vision, Bindra was deeply respected throughout the cricketing community, even by those who occasionally disagreed with his methods. His administrative career spanned several decades, during which he remained a strong voice in both domestic and international cricket governance.
Significant Contributions Beyond BCCI Presidency
Beyond his tenure at the BCCI, Bindra's contribution to Indian cricket was vast and multifaceted. He was instrumental in the development of the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium in Mohali, which went on to host several historic international matches, including World Cup fixtures.
Regional Development and International Standing
His efforts helped bring top-level cricket to the northern region and significantly strengthened Punjab's presence on the national cricketing map. Bindra was also known for standing up to international cricketing bodies when he felt Indian cricket's interests were at stake, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the sport's development in India.
The passing of Inderjit Singh Bindra marks the end of an era in Indian cricket administration. His legacy includes not just institutional reforms but also the physical infrastructure that continues to host international cricket matches to this day. The cricketing community mourns the loss of a visionary leader whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
