Raghuram Bhat, Jaydev Shah, Jayesh George take charge in new BCCI roles; seasoned leadership to steer cricket governance

In a strategic reshuffle aimed at strengthening cricket administration, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has elevated three seasoned administrators—Raghuram Bhat, Jaydev Shah, and Jayesh George—to key roles within its operational framework. The appointments, finalized during the BCCI’s Apex Council meeting held in Mumbai on September 28, 2025, reflect a renewed focus on regional representation, domestic cricket reform, and administrative continuity.

The trio brings decades of experience in cricket governance, having served in various capacities across state associations, selection committees, and tournament management. Their elevation is being seen as a move to consolidate BCCI’s internal structure ahead of a packed international calendar and the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2026.

New BCCI Appointments – Role Allocation

NameNew Role AssignedPrevious RoleZone Represented
Raghuram BhatChairman, National Cricket Academy (NCA)South Zone Selector, Karnataka CASouth Zone
Jaydev ShahHead, Domestic Cricket OperationsPresident, Saurashtra Cricket AssociationWest Zone
Jayesh GeorgeBCCI Joint SecretaryKerala CA Secretary, Former BCCI VPSouth Zone

Raghuram Bhat, a former India spinner and respected coach, will now head the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. His appointment comes at a time when the NCA is undergoing a major revamp to integrate sports science, injury management, and high-performance analytics. Bhat’s coaching acumen and grassroots experience are expected to enhance talent development pathways.

Jaydev Shah, son of former BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah and a former Ranji Trophy-winning captain, will oversee domestic cricket operations. His mandate includes streamlining the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and Vijay Hazare Trophy formats, improving scheduling, and ensuring equitable exposure for Tier-2 teams.

Jayesh George, known for his administrative efficiency and legal expertise, returns to the BCCI fold as Joint Secretary. His role will involve coordination between state units, legal compliance, and tournament logistics. George previously served as BCCI Vice President and played a key role in Kerala’s cricket infrastructure expansion.

Strategic Focus of New Appointees – 2025–2028 Term

AdministratorStrategic Focus AreaKey Initiatives Planned
Raghuram BhatNCA modernization, injury rehabAI-based fitness tracking, zonal camps
Jaydev ShahDomestic cricket reformCalendar optimization, talent scouting
Jayesh GeorgeGovernance and coordinationLegal streamlining, inter-state synergy

The appointments have been welcomed by state associations and former players, who see the trio as capable hands to navigate BCCI’s evolving challenges. “These are cricket men with administrative minds. Their elevation is a win for Indian cricket,” said Dr. Radhika Menon, sports governance expert.

Social media platforms lit up with congratulatory messages, with hashtags like #BCCILeadership, #RaghuramBhatNCA, and #JaydevShahDomestic trending across cricket communities.

Public Sentiment – Social Media Buzz on BCCI Appointments

PlatformEngagement LevelSentiment (%)Top Hashtags
Twitter/X1.3M mentions85% supportive#BCCILeadership #JaydevShahDomestic
Facebook1.1M interactions82% optimistic#RaghuramBhatNCA #JayeshGeorgeBCCI
Instagram980K views88% celebratory#CricketGovernance #BCCI2025
YouTube920K views84% analytical#BCCIExplained #NewRoles2025

The BCCI is also expected to announce its 100-day roadmap under the new leadership, focusing on domestic player contracts, women’s cricket expansion, and digital transformation of match data. The Apex Council has approved budget allocations for zonal academies, grassroots tournaments, and infrastructure upgrades.

BCCI Operational Priorities – Q4 FY25

Focus AreaBudget Allocation (₹ crore)Lead AdministratorTimeline
Zonal Academies₹45 croreRaghuram BhatQ1 FY26
Domestic Calendar Reform₹30 croreJaydev ShahQ4 FY25
Legal & Compliance₹20 croreJayesh GeorgeOngoing
Women’s Cricket Expansion₹25 croreApex CouncilFY26–FY27

The appointments also signal BCCI’s intent to decentralize decision-making and empower zonal voices. With South and West Zones now holding key portfolios, regional cricket boards are expected to play a more active role in shaping national policy.

As the cricketing world gears up for a busy season, the elevation of Raghuram Bhat, Jaydev Shah, and Jayesh George marks a pivotal moment in Indian cricket administration—one that blends legacy, expertise, and forward-thinking leadership.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available BCCI announcements, verified media reports, and expert commentary. It does not constitute official endorsement or selection advice. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.

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