Sourav Ganguly Likely to Return as CAB President – What It Means for Bengal Cricket
In a major development in Indian cricket administration, Sourav Ganguly, former Team India captain and ex-BCCI president, is likely to contest for the presidency of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). According to India Today, Ganguly has confirmed he will file his nomination before the upcoming CAB Annual General Meeting (AGM). If he does, he is expected to win uncontested.
This move marks a significant return for Ganguly to Bengal cricket administration after a notable stint at the national level.
CAB Elections & Background
The CAB elections are now officially scheduled. The AGM will take place on September 20, 2025, and the final Apex Council meeting will be held on August 14, 2025.
This development comes after Ganguly’s elder brother, Snehasish Ganguly, who was the current CAB President, was disqualified due to the Lodha Committee’s tenure guidelines. As a result, the position has opened up — and Sourav Ganguly is the front-runner to reclaim it.
Ganguly’s History with CAB & BCCI
Sourav Ganguly is no stranger to CAB. His involvement began in 2015 when he first became CAB Secretary and shortly afterward was elevated to CAB President, replacing Jagmohan Dalmiya after his passing. Ganguly served in this role from 2015 to 2019 before moving to national duties as BCCI President (2019–2022).
Key Highlights from Ganguly’s CAB Tenure (2015–2019):
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Focused on revitalizing Bengal cricket at the grassroots and domestic level.
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Pushed for infrastructure development and upgraded training facilities.
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Introduced expert coaching staff and better player welfare programs.
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Helped Bengal perform competitively in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy.
🇮🇳 Ganguly’s Legacy as BCCI President
Ganguly’s impact on Indian cricket administration extended well beyond Bengal. As BCCI president, he was a major force behind:
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Launching a modern National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.
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Improving player contracts, support staff structure, and domestic tournament value.
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Strengthening international relations and promoting the globalisation of Indian cricket.
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Spearheading initiatives like Day-Night Test matches and exploring the idea of multi-nation tournaments.
His tenure at the BCCI showcased his visionary leadership, and his return to CAB is expected to bring back that same progressive energy.
What His Return Means for Bengal Cricket
Sourav Ganguly’s likely comeback as CAB President is a major boost for Bengal cricket. With experience both at the state and national levels, he is uniquely positioned to:
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Reignite youth cricket development across Bengal.
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Secure more funding and sponsorship for infrastructure upgrades.
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Strengthen Bengal’s representation in India’s domestic and international setup.
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Build a roadmap to make Bengal a top-performing team in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
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A Leader On and Off the Field
Sourav Ganguly, affectionately known as ‘Dada’, is not just a cricket icon but a powerful voice in Indian cricket administration. During his tenure as BCCI President, he played a pivotal role in elevating women’s cricket by introducing the Women’s T20 Challenge, which paved the way for the current Women’s Premier League (WPL).
His administrative skills were further highlighted when the IPL media rights for 2023–2027 were sold for a record-breaking ₹48,000 crore, marking a new era in Indian cricket broadcasting.
In 2022, Ganguly was succeeded by Roger Binny, a 1983 World Cup winner, as BCCI President. However, his legacy continues to influence how Indian cricket operates, both financially and structurally.
A Glorious Playing Career
Ganguly’s return to CAB brings with it the experience of a legendary playing career:
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Test Debut: Lord’s, 1996 (Scored a century)
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International Career Span: 1992–2008
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Matches Played: 113 Tests, 311 ODIs
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Runs Scored: Over 18,500 international runs
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Centuries/Fifties: 38 centuries, 107 fifties
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ODI Partnership: Formed a legendary opening pair with Sachin Tendulkar
Known for his fearless leadership, Ganguly transformed India into a competitive unit overseas and laid the foundation for many future stars.
What His Return Means
With rich experience at both the state and national levels, Ganguly’s return to CAB is expected to:
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Provide stability and structured leadership
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Attract investment and talent development programs
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Promote Bengal cricket at the grassroots and elite levels
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Enhance infrastructure and player pathways
If elected, he will once again guide Bengal cricket through a new chapter, combining his cricketing intellect and administrative experience to nurture the next generation of champions.
