Who is Devajit Saikia? Ex-first class cricketer replaces Jay Shah as BCCI secretary

Former cricketer Devajit Saikia has been appointed as the new Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This prestigious position became available after the former Secretary, Jay Shah, took on the role of ICC Chairman last month.

Saikia has been serving as the interim Secretary of the BCCI since Shah's departure on December 1. According to the BCCI constitution, any vacant position must be filled within 45 days by convening a Special General Meeting (SGM). The meeting held on Sunday, which was the 43rd day, was well within this timeframe.

In addition to Saikia, Prabhtej Singh Bhatia was officially elected as the BCCI Treasurer during the SGM on Sunday. Bhatia takes over from Ashish Shelar, who recently resigned to pursue a role in the Maharashtra government. It is worth noting that Saikia and Prabhtej were the only candidates for the vacant positions after the BCCI's returning officer, and former CEC of India, Achal Kumar Joti, finalized the list on Tuesday.

Who is Devajit Saikia?

Devajit Saikia had a brief but notable cricket career, appearing in four first-class matches between 1990 and 1991. During this time, he made an impression by hitting 53 runs and taking nine wickets. After retiring from cricket, Saikia pursued a career in law, beginning in the renowned Guwahati High Court at the age of 28.

Saikia, 55, has moved into cricket administration, something he had not meant to do. Although he was originally apprehensive, he felt compelled to become engaged after witnessing corruption in Assam's cricket administration.

Saikia, the newly appointed BCCI Secretary, and Roger Binny, the President, met with India's Head Coach, Gautam Gambhir, and Captain, Rohit Sharma, at a five-star hotel in Mumbai on Saturday. The meeting lasted more than two hours and featured an in-depth discussion.

According to a BCCI source reported by news agency PTI, the meeting's purpose was to assess the Indian team's performance in the Border Gavaskar Trophy, identify areas for improvement, and discuss necessary remedial actions. While changes are required, the new BCCI administration is wary of making hasty choices, particularly with the Champions Trophy 2025 only a few weeks away.

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