In a notable reorganization, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) appointed Devajit Saikia as its new Secretary and Prabhtej Singh Bhatia as Treasurer on January 13. According to a press release, both individuals were the sole candidates for their respective positions and were “elected unopposed.” Saikia, aged 55, takes over from Jay Shah, who resigned to become the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Prior to this appointment, Saikia served as the interim Joint Secretary of the BCCI, and his elevation to the role of Secretary came in the wake of Shah’s exit. Although Saikia is not widely recognized among cricket enthusiasts due to his limited playing experience—having participated in only four first-class matches for Assam—his administrative career has been closely associated with the BJP-led government in Assam. His connection with Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam and a prominent BJP leader, has significantly influenced his ascent in cricket administration.
Prabhtej Singh Bhatia assumes the role of BCCI Treasurer after Ashish Shelar stepped down to take on a new position within the Maharashtra government. BCCI President Roger Binny extended his congratulations to the newly appointed officials, praising their administrative capabilities and expressing confidence in their potential to uphold the legacy of their predecessors. He emphasized that the leadership of Saikia and Bhatia would enhance both governance and financial oversight within Indian cricket.