Anil Kumble Celebrates BCCI Naman Award Winners, Honoring Dravid and Binny

Key Takeaways

BCCI's Naman Awards celebrate excellence in Indian cricket.

Rahul Dravid received the prestigious lifetime achievement award.

Several ICC title-winning teams were recognized during the event.

Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana were standout awardees.

A focus on rising stars like Shafali Verma and Ayush Mhatre .

New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently held another remarkable edition of the ‘Naman’ awards ceremony, celebrating the finest talents and pioneers of Indian cricket. Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble took the opportunity to extend his heartfelt congratulations to his 'dear friend' Rahul Dravid, who was honored with the prestigious lifetime achievement award.

This grand event occurred on Sunday night, attended by BCCI officials, along with the former secretary of the board and current chairman of the International Cricket Council, Jay Shah. The evening was graced by the victorious members of five recent ICC tournaments, including the U19 Men’s World Cup, U19 Women’s World Cup, Champions Trophy, Women’s ODI World Cup, and Men’s T20 World Cup.

The spotlight was on veterans such as the former head coach Rahul Dravid, 1983 World Cup champion and ex-BCCI president Roger Binny, and former captain Mithali Raj. These three legends received the esteemed Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.

Kumble shared his thoughts on social media, stating, “A special awards night celebrating the journey of Indian cricket. It was wonderful to see five ICC title-winning teams together at the BCCI Naman Awards. I am delighted for my dear friend Rahul Dravid on receiving the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award. Congratulations also to my first captain Roger Binny, Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Smriti Mandhana, and all the award recipients.”

Notable winners included India’s Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, who received the Polly Umrigar Award (Best International Cricketer - Men) for the 2024–25 season, alongside Smriti Mandhana, who achieved the Best International Cricketer (Women) award for the fifth time, as well as accolades for being the top run-scorer in ODIs. Her teammate, all-rounder Deepti Sharma, was recognized as the highest wicket-taker in ODIs for 2024-25.

Additionally, India opener Shafali Verma and U-19 World Cup-winning captain Ayush Mhatre were honored for their exceptional performances during the 2024–25 domestic season.

Furthermore, N Sree Charani and Harshit Rana received the ‘Best International Debut’ award, while the Mumbai Cricket Association was acknowledged for its ‘Best Performance in BCCI Domestic Tournaments of 2024-25.’

Point of View

With significant recognition for legends and new talents alike. Anil Kumble's heartfelt message to Rahul Dravid highlights the camaraderie and respect within the cricketing community.

NationPress

10 May 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Naman Awards?

The Naman Awards are an annual ceremony organized by the BCCI to honor the top performers in Indian cricket.

Who received the Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award?

Rahul Dravid, Roger Binny, and Mithali Raj were honored with the Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.

What awards did Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana receive?

Shubman Gill received the Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer - Men, while Smriti Mandhana won the Best International Cricketer (Women) award and was recognized as the top run-scorer in ODIs.

Who were some notable attendees at the awards ceremony?

Notable attendees included Jay Shah, BCCI officials, and members of the ICC title-winning teams.

What other awards were presented at the event?

Awards for Best International Debut and Best Performance in BCCI Domestic Tournaments were also presented.