By SRTeam In a significant development within Indian cricket administration, Devajit Saikia has been appointed as the new Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), succeeding Jay Shah, who recently assumed the role of Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Saikia, a former first-class cricketer from Assam, has been serving as the interim Secretary of the BCCI since December 1, following Shah’s departure. His elevation to the permanent position was confirmed during a Special General Meeting (SGM) held on January 12, 2025, in adherence to the BCCI constitution, which mandates filling any vacant position within 45 days.
Background and Career
Born on April 19, 1969, in Guwahati, Assam, Saikia’s early life was marked by a passion for cricket and academics. He completed his schooling at Don Bosco School, Guwahati, and pursued higher education at Cotton College under Gauhati University, earning a Master’s degree in Economics in 1994. Subsequently, he obtained an LLB degree from Old Earle Law College (now BRM Govt. Law College) in 1996.
Saikia’s cricketing career saw him represent Assam in the Ranji Trophy as a wicketkeeper and middle-order batsman between 1990 and 1991. Although his stint was brief, he made notable contributions by scoring 53 runs and securing nine wickets.
Transitioning from sports to law, Saikia began practicing as an advocate at the Gauhati High Court at the age of 28. His legal acumen led to his appointment as the Advocate General of Assam in 2021.
Administrative Roles in Cricket
Saikia’s administrative journey in cricket commenced in 2016 when he joined the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) as one of the six vice presidents. In 2019, he was elected unopposed as the Secretary of ACA, reflecting the trust and confidence the cricketing fraternity placed in him.
His contributions at the state level paved the way for his elevation to the national stage. On October 18, 2022, Saikia was elected as the Joint Secretary of the BCCI, becoming a member of the Apex Council of one of the world’s premier sports organizations.
Appointment as BCCI Secretary
Following Jay Shah’s transition to the ICC, BCCI President Roger Binny exercised his constitutional powers to appoint Saikia as the acting Secretary on December 8, 2024. This interim arrangement was formalized during the SGM on January 12, 2025, where Saikia was officially elected as the BCCI Secretary.
In his new role, Saikia is expected to continue the initiatives undertaken during his tenure as Joint Secretary, focusing on the development of cricket infrastructure, talent nurturing, and ensuring transparency in the administration. His legal background and experience in cricket administration are anticipated to contribute significantly to the governance of Indian cricket.
Other Appointments
The SGM also witnessed the election of Prabhtej Singh Bhatia as the BCCI Treasurer, succeeding Ashish Shelar, who resigned to pursue a role in the Maharashtra government. Bhatia’s unopposed election, alongside Saikia’s, underscores a unified approach within the BCCI towards strengthening its administrative framework.
Looking Ahead
As the new Secretary, Saikia’s immediate focus will be on steering the BCCI through upcoming challenges, including the organization of domestic and international fixtures, enhancing grassroots cricket development, and maintaining India’s dominant position in world cricket. His appointment comes at a crucial juncture, with the Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, necessitating strategic planning and execution.
The cricketing community and stakeholders are optimistic that under Saikia’s leadership, the BCCI will continue its trajectory of growth, uphold the integrity of the sport, and further elevate India’s status in the global cricketing arena.
In conclusion, Devajit Saikia’s journey from a cricketer to a legal luminary and now the Secretary of the BCCI reflects a blend of passion, dedication, and expertise. His multifaceted experience is poised to bring a holistic perspective to the administration of cricket in India, fostering an environment conducive to the sport’s development at all levels.