Former BCCI President IS Bindra Passes Away at 84, Leaves Behind Transformative Legacy
Former Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Inderjit Singh Bindra, a towering figure who played a pivotal role in reshaping the commercial landscape of Indian cricket, passed away on Sunday at the age of 84. He is survived by his son and daughter. Bindra's demise marks the end of an era for cricket administration in the country, where his innovative approaches left an indelible mark.
Distinguished Tenure as Cricket Administrator
Bindra served as the president of the BCCI from 1993 to 1996, bringing visionary leadership during a critical period of expansion. Prior to this, he held the prestigious position of president at the Punjab Cricket Association for an impressive 36 years, from 1978 to 2014. In recognition of his monumental contributions, the PCA stadium was renamed as the IS Bindra Stadium in 2015, a fitting tribute to his decades of service and inspiration.
Jay Shah, chairman of the International Cricket Council, expressed his condolences on social media, stating: "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." This sentiment echoes widely across the cricketing community, acknowledging Bindra's foundational role.
Architect of Modern Cricket Marketing in India
Bindra is perhaps best remembered for his instrumental role in organizing the 1987 Cricket World Cup, then known as the Reliance Cup, which was hosted in India. This event was historic as it marked the first time the global tournament moved out of England after the 1975, 1979, and 1983 editions. Working closely with his close friend, the late Jagmohan Dalmiya, and then BCCI chief NKP Salve, Bindra managed this significant coup that opened the Indian television market to new possibilities in cricket marketing.
His efforts in breaking the monopoly of Doordarshan in cricket broadcasting were groundbreaking. In 1994, Bindra approached the Supreme Court of India, and a favorable verdict allowed his team to bring global companies like ESPN and TWI into the Indian market. This move catalyzed the expansion of cricket broadcasting, eventually making India the largest market in the world for the sport.
Expanding Influence Beyond Indian Borders
After retiring from cricket administration in 2014, Bindra continued to influence the game globally. He served as the principal advisor of the International Cricket Council during Sharad Pawar's presidency, leveraging his expertise on an international stage. Additionally, Bindra played a key role in the appointment of Haroon Lorgat as the Cricket South Africa CEO, demonstrating his far-reaching impact in cricket governance.
Controversies and Lasting Legacy
Despite his many achievements, Bindra's career was not without controversy. His support for Lalit Modi following the spot-fixing saga in the Indian Premier League drew criticism from some quarters. Similarly, his involvement in Lorgat's appointment did not win him universal approval. However, these moments do not overshadow his overall contributions.
From a commercial perspective, Bindra remains one of the chief architects of modern Indian cricket. His visionary strategies in marketing, broadcasting, and event organization transformed the sport into a multi-billion-dollar industry in India. Starting his association with cricket as an official in 1975, Bindra's journey reflects a lifelong dedication to elevating the game, both on and off the field.
As the cricketing world mourns his loss, Bindra's legacy continues to inspire administrators and fans alike, ensuring that his pioneering spirit will be remembered for generations to come.
