Roger Binny Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award by BCCI

Celebrating a Cricket Legend

In New Delhi on March 16, former BCCI president Roger Binny expressed his deep pride and appreciation after receiving a lifetime achievement award from the Indian cricket board. He described this recognition as a cherished milestone for any cricketer.

Binny, alongside fellow former cricketer Rahul Dravid, was awarded the prestigious Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, while Mithali Raj was honored with the BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award for Women during the BCCI Naman Awards 2026 ceremony held on Sunday.

The BCCI Naman Awards celebrate outstanding performances and significant contributions to cricket at various levels, honoring those who have played a pivotal role in the sport's development in India.

The Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest accolade given by the BCCI to former players for their exceptional contributions to cricket.

Reflecting on this honor, Binny shared that receiving such recognition from the BCCI was a significant moment after years of dedication to cricket as a player, coach, and administrator.

He stated, "I felt immense pride when I learned about this award from the BCCI. It’s something that every cricketer would hold dear, as it represents a lifetime of achievements. My journey in cricket encompasses not just playing but also coaching and administration, all of which revolve around the sport. This award is a tremendous honor, and I am very proud to accept it."

Looking back on his playing career, Binny noted that representing India was the pinnacle of his achievements, especially given the fierce competition for a spot on the national team.

He remarked, "I was fortunate to be among the few who played for India. In a country with such a vast population, not many get the opportunity to represent the nation. For me, achieving this goal was the ultimate dream I had as a young boy."

Binny reminisced about India's remarkable successes in the 1980s, including the historic 1983 Cricket World Cup victory and other significant wins in limited-overs tournaments.

He said, "Being part of winning teams and appearing on television was a dream come true. Winning the World Cup and the World Championship of Cricket during my time was one of my greatest achievements. From 1983 to 1987, we dominated every one-day competition globally and in Asia, making it a remarkable period for me."

After retiring from international cricket, Binny initially distanced himself from the sport but later returned to coaching, starting with teams in Karnataka before moving on to India's junior teams.

He explained, "After finishing my playing career, I took a break from cricket. However, I soon realized I had much more to contribute, which led me to coaching, beginning with my home state of Karnataka and then working with the Indian U19 and U21 teams. This was a significant boost for me as I could share my knowledge and experience."

Binny transitioned into cricket administration, beginning with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) in 1999. Over the years, he climbed the ranks, eventually becoming the KSCA president and later the BCCI head.

He shared, "I entered administration in my home state back in 1999, starting as a committee member and eventually becoming the KSCA president. After my time there, I was fortunate to join the BCCI."

Leading the BCCI was another fulfilling chapter in Binny's career, allowing him to continue his contributions to the sport at both state and national levels.

He added, "My tenure as BCCI president was enjoyable, as I could contribute to the game at various levels. I took great satisfaction in that."

As a vital member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team, Binny made a significant impact with his seam bowling, finishing as the tournament's top wicket-taker. He was also part of the 1985 World Championship of Cricket-winning squad and made history as the first Indian to open both batting and bowling in the same ODI.

Post-retirement, Binny continued to influence Indian cricket as the U-19 coach, leading the team to victory in the 2000 ICC U-19 World Cup, and later served as a national selector from 2012 to 2016.

He also held the position of the 36th BCCI President from 2022 to 2025. In recognition of his lifelong dedication and contributions to Indian cricket, he was awarded the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.