IS Bindra Passes Away: Remembering the Architect of Modern Indian Cricket

Former BCCI president IS Bindra passes away at 84

The heartbeat of Indian cricket has lost one of its most influential architects. IS Bindra, the former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and a revered international sports administrator, passed away at his New Delhi residence on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the age of 84 . His sudden demise, following a rapid health decline after lunch, has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity, from grassroots clubs to the highest echelons of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Today, we remember not just a man, but a legacy that fundamentally reshaped the game in India and beyond.

Table of Contents

Who Was IS Bindra? A Life in Cricket

Born on September 27, 1941, Inderjit Singh Bindra was more than just an administrator; he was a passionate custodian of the game. His journey in cricket began long before he held any formal office. He was deeply involved with the Punjab Cricket Association, where his meticulous planning and organizational skills first came to the fore. His rise through the ranks of the BCCI was a testament to his dedication, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to the sport’s development .

IS Bindra’s Impact on the BCCI

His tenure as BCCI president from 1996 to 1999 was a period of significant transition for Indian cricket. At a time when the board was still finding its feet as a commercial entity, Bindra played a crucial role in professionalizing its operations. He understood early on that cricket in India was not just a sport but a massive cultural and economic force.

Under his watchful eye, the BCCI began to lay the groundwork for the financial muscle it wields today. He championed better infrastructure, advocated for improved player welfare, and pushed for a more structured domestic calendar. His leadership helped stabilize the board during a complex period and set it on a path towards becoming the undisputed financial engine of world cricket [INTERNAL_LINK:history-of-bcci].

Key Contributions During His BCCI Presidency

  • Financial Prudence: Oversaw a period of sound financial management that built the BCCI’s reserves.
  • Infrastructure Push: Advocated for the modernization of stadiums and training facilities across India.
  • Global Stature: Worked tirelessly to enhance India’s voice and influence in international cricket forums.

A Global Visionary: ICC and World Cup 2011

Bindra’s influence extended far beyond India’s borders. He served as the chairman of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Finance and Marketing Committee for over a decade—a position of immense power that effectively controlled the purse strings of world cricket . In this role, he was instrumental in negotiating landmark broadcast deals that brought unprecedented revenue to the global game.

Perhaps his most visible and celebrated global contribution was his pivotal role as the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, which was co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. His leadership was widely credited for the tournament’s smooth execution and its status as one of the most successful World Cups in history, both on and off the field. The iconic image of MS Dhoni hitting the winning six is forever linked to Bindra’s masterful organization behind the scenes.

Tributes Pour In From Across the Cricketing World

News of IS Bindra’s passing has triggered an outpouring of grief and respect from every corner of the cricket world.

  • BCCI Secretary Jay Shah: Called him a “legendary administrator” and a “mentor to many,” stating his contributions are “etched in the annals of Indian cricket.”
  • Former India Captain Sourav Ganguly: Remembered him as a “man of great integrity and vision” who always had the game’s best interests at heart.
  • ICC Chairman Greg Barclay: Paid tribute to his “immense contribution to the global game,” highlighting his “strategic acumen and dedication.”

These tributes underscore the universal respect he commanded, a rare feat in the often-politicized world of sports administration.

Final Journey and Personal Life

According to family sources, Bindra’s health took a sudden turn for the worse on Sunday afternoon after lunch. Despite immediate medical attention, he passed away peacefully at his home around 6:30 pm . His last rites are scheduled to be performed at the Lodhi Road crematorium in New Delhi on Monday, January 26, 2026.

Outside of cricket, Bindra was known as a man of few words but immense wisdom. He was a successful businessman, which gave him a unique perspective on managing the commercial aspects of the sport. He is survived by his family, who have requested privacy during this difficult time.

Conclusion: An Enduring Legacy

IS Bindra was not just a former BCCI president; he was a foundational pillar of modern Indian cricket. His foresight in recognizing the sport’s commercial potential, his strategic brilliance in global negotiations, and his unwavering commitment to its growth have left an indelible mark. From the gleaming stadiums to the billion-dollar broadcast rights, much of the ecosystem that fans enjoy today was built on the principles he championed. As the cricketing world mourns his loss, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of administrators and players alike.

Sources

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