New Delhi, Jan 26 (NationPress) Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, ex-spinner Harbhajan Singh, and various members of the Indian cricket community expressed their sorrow over the passing of Inderjit Singh Bindra, the former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), who departed this world at the age of 84 at his home on Sunday.

Bindra held the position of BCCI president from 1993 to 1996 and was a pivotal figure in the administration of Indian cricket, also leading the Punjab Cricket Association for several years. His connection to the PCA lasted over thirty years, from 1978 until 2014.

“I am heartbroken to learn of the demise of I.S. Bindra. He was an exceptional administrator whose impact I recognized from a very young age. His vision and contributions to Indian cricket will be etched in our memories forever. My heartfelt condolences to his family,” Yuvraj remarked on X.

“A giant in Indian cricket administration. We extend our deepest sympathies on the passing of former BCCI and PCA President I.S. Bindra,” wrote the IPL franchise Punjab Kings on their social media platform.

“I.S. Bindra was an extraordinary administrator who served with honor in the Indian government and earned respect across all sectors. He was a monumental figure in Punjab cricket — without his vision, guidance, and steadfast support, Punjab cricket would not have achieved its current stature. His influence on Indian cricket was equally significant. He was always available for his players, ready to assist, support, and guide them at every turn.

“On a personal note, he was akin to a father figure to me, someone who consistently motivated me to make the right choices in life. His wisdom and compassion shaped not just careers but lives. This is a profound personal loss. There will never be anyone who can genuinely fill your shoes, sir. Though you have departed, the impact you have made on all of us will remain eternal. Rest in peace, sir,” former Indian and Punjab cricketer Harbhajan Singh expressed on X.

Former Indian and Karnataka cricketer Dodda Ganesh stated, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Shri I.S. Bindra. He was a visionary cricket administrator whose leadership and commitment were crucial in shaping Indian cricket. His contributions to the sport will be fondly remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family. Om Shanti.”

Current ICC chair and former BCCI President Jay Shah confirmed the news on Sunday, stating, “My deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. I.S. Bindra, former BCCI president and a stalwart of Indian cricket administration. May his legacy inspire future generations. Om Shanti.”

The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) mourned Bindra’s loss, noting, “The Punjab Cricket Association grieves the loss of I.S. Bindra, a visionary administrator and former president of the BCCI and PCA. His leadership, foresight, and unwavering dedication played a crucial role in the evolution and governance of Indian cricket. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations within the cricketing community. Our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul find peace.”

Throughout his tenure as an administrator, Bindra made significant contributions to cricket management and infrastructure, both locally and internationally. In 2015, he was honored with the renaming of the PCA Stadium in Mohali to I.S. Bindra Stadium in recognition of his contributions to the sport.

In addition to his administrative roles, Bindra was known for his candid views on governance in Indian cricket. He was particularly critical of the way the IPL 2013 corruption scandal was handled by N. Srinivasan and the BCCI, raising concerns regarding the transparency and accountability of that process.

As a senior bureaucrat, Bindra was instrumental in establishing India’s position in world cricket during the 1990s. Together with Jagmohan Dalmiya, he identified commercial prospects in television rights, paving the way for private broadcasters to enter the cricket arena. This shift revolutionized the financial framework of the game and amplified India's global presence.

Globally, Bindra played a vital role in securing ICC rights to host major events in India. He subsequently served as a key advisor to the ICC President, underscoring his significance in cricket governance.