Harbhajan Singh Poised for Possible Entry into BCCI Leadership Race

Following the speculation surrounding Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh is now being considered for a top role at the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Tendulkar has dismissed any such suggestions, but Harbhajan has not yet commented, fueling rumors about his possible candidacy.

The speculation gained traction when the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) nominated the 45-year-old former cricketer, who has earned 367 international caps for India. Clarity will come once official nominations are submitted since only candidates endorsed by a state association can run.

The ruling BJP, which significantly influences the BCCI, is known to favor successful athletes for key positions in sports organizations. This strategy helped Sourav Ganguly and Roger Binny, both former Indian cricketers, to secure the BCCI presidency.

Harbhajan has not responded to calls or texts from Cricbuzz. However, the situation should become clearer soon, as candidates are required to submit their nominations within two weeks. According to BCCI electoral officer AK Joti, the nomination window is open from September 20 to 21, with the elections set for September 28.

The election will decide the president, vice-president, secretary, joint secretary, and treasurer positions. Based on recent trends at BCCI AGMs, competition for these posts is unlikely. It is expected that Devajit Saikia, Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, and Rohan Dessai will continue as secretary, treasurer, and joint secretary, respectively.

According to the election schedule, September 12 was the deadline for state associations to submit the names of their representatives who will attend the AGM and vote if necessary. The list is anticipated to be released on September 13.

After nominations are submitted on September 20 and 21, scrutiny will take place on September 22. Candidates can withdraw their nominations on September 23, with the final list of contestants announced thereafter. The election and vote counting are scheduled for September 28.

According to the electoral officer, candidates must detail any positions held within the BCCI. “An Information Sheet from the Representative specifying all Elective Posts held by the Representative in the BCCI and/or any Full Member of the BCCI Previously and/or Currently, along with the Name of the Elective Posts and Tenures of such positions. The Information in this regard is to be submitted in the prescribed Form C signed by the Representative and Duly attested by a Notary/Oath Commissioner,” states the notification.