Sachin Tendulkar has categorically denied being in contention for the presidency of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Amid wild speculation that the cricket legend was set to take over as the board's next president, his team has issued a statement firmly dismissing the rumours.
"It has come to our attention that certain reports and rumours have been circulating regarding Mr. Sachin Tendulkar being considered, or nominated, for the position of President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)," the official statement read. "We wish to categorically state that no such development has taken place."
Tendulkar himself was not available for comment but his team requested the media to stop making such speculations. "We urge all concerned to refrain from giving credence to unfounded speculations," the statement further said. The statement was issued by SRT Sports Management Pvt Ltd.
The BCCI elections are scheduled for September 28, with voting to be held for the posts of president, vice-president, secretary, joint secretary, and treasurer. The general perception within the board is that incumbent secretary Devajit Saikia, joint secretary Rohan Gauns Dessai, and treasurer Prabhtej Singh Bhati will retain their positions.
The big questions revolve around the positions of president and vice-president, as well as the role of chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Rajeev Shukla is the current vice-president, and he may continue to remain part of the BCCI setup in some capacity.
Friday (September 12) is the last date for the state associations to submit the names of their representatives for the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The list may provide an indication as to who are in for the big big posts.