Why Was a Minute’s Silence Observed for IS Bindra and Ajit Pawar in Ranji Trophy Matches?
Synopsis
A poignant moment unfolded in New Delhi as players and officials across Ranji Trophy matches paused to commemorate the lives of former BCCI President IS Bindra and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. This touching tribute highlights the profound impact both figures had on Indian cricket and politics.
Key Takeaways
Tributes paid to IS Bindra and Ajit Pawar during Ranji Trophy matches.
IS Bindra served as BCCI President from 1993 to 1996.
Ajit Pawar tragically passed away in a plane crash.
Players wore black armbands in honor of Pawar.
Both figures had a significant impact on Indian cricket and politics.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Players and officials held a minute’s silence to honor the late former BCCI President IS Bindra and Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, prior to the commencement of the Ranji Trophy round seven matches in Chandigarh and Mumbai, respectively.
IS Bindra, who was the BCCI President from 1993 to 1996 and also served as the head of the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), passed away at the age of 84 in New Delhi on Sunday. As the Punjab and Karnataka teams entered the IS Bindra Cricket Stadium in Mohali, along with the match officials, a minute’s silence was observed before the action began in the Elite Group B encounter.
“A minute's silence was observed before the Ranji Trophy match between Punjab and Karnataka to remember former BCCI President Mr. Inderjit Singh Bindra, who departed on January 25, 2026, at the age of 84,” the BCCI communicated via its ‘X’ account dedicated to domestic cricket on Thursday.
Meanwhile, at the BKC Ground in Mumbai, players from both the Delhi and Mumbai teams, along with match officials, took a moment to honor Ajit Pawar, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in Baramati, Maharashtra, on Wednesday, before their match in the Elite Group D.
Players also donned black armbands as a mark of respect for Pawar. “A moment of silence was held before the Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Delhi to honor the late Hon. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Dada Pawar, celebrating his legacy and contributions to the community,” shared Ajinkya Naik, President of the Mumbai Cricket Association, on his ‘X’ account.
Point of View
The recent tributes to IS Bindra and Ajit Pawar underscore the deep connections between sports and public service in India. Their legacies will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us of the importance of leadership in both cricket and governance.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Ajit Pawar?
Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, tragically passed away in a plane crash in Baramati on January 25, 2026.
Why was a minute’s silence observed?
A minute’s silence was observed in memory of IS Bindra and Ajit Pawar prior to the Ranji Trophy matches as a mark of respect for their contributions.
Where did the tributes take place?
The tributes took place at the IS Bindra Cricket Stadium in Mohali and the BKC Ground in Mumbai.
What is the significance of the Ranji Trophy?
The Ranji Trophy is one of the most prestigious domestic cricket tournaments in India, showcasing talent from various states.
