Roger Michael Humphrey Binny, a renowned Indian former international cricketer, and the 36th and current President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), celebrates his birthday on July 19th. Binny, born in 1955, had a remarkable cricketing career representing India during the 1970s and 1980s. As a versatile all-rounder, Binny left an indelible mark on Indian cricket history with his exceptional performances both with the bat and the ball. Today, on his birthday, we celebrate the life and contributions of this legendary figure.
Early Life and Cricket Journey: Born in Bangalore, Karnataka, Roger Binny developed a passion for cricket from an early age. His father, Roger Binny Sr., was a well-known cricketer himself, which further fueled young Roger's interest in the sport. Roger Binny Jr. attended St. Joseph's College, Bangalore, where he honed his skills and demonstrated immense talent in both batting and bowling.
International Career: Roger Binny made his international debut for India in 1979 against Pakistan, and he quickly proved himself as an invaluable asset to the team. Binny's signature style was his seam bowling, with his ability to swing the ball making him a challenging bowler to face. Binny was also a proficient middle-order batsman, known for his gritty and determined approach.
Binny's most memorable performance came during the 1983 Cricket World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in India's historic triumph. He was the highest wicket-taker of the tournament with 18 wickets, including a spell of 4 wickets for 29 runs in the final against the West Indies. Binny's all-round contributions significantly contributed to India lifting their first-ever World Cup trophy.
Contribution to Indian Cricket: Binny's achievements extended beyond the World Cup. He played 27 Test matches and 72 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for India, leaving a lasting impact on the game. Binny's excellent seam bowling and ability to rescue the team with crucial innings in challenging situations made him a reliable player. He was also known for his fielding prowess, often taking stunning catches and effecting crucial run-outs.
Post-Retirement and Role as BCCI President: After retiring from international cricket, Binny remained involved in the sport, taking up coaching and administrative roles. His astute cricketing knowledge and dedication led him to serve as a selector for the national team. In 2021, Binny was elected as the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), assuming a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian cricket.
As the BCCI President, Binny focused on promoting grassroots cricket, nurturing young talent, and improving the infrastructure of the sport across the country. Under his leadership, several initiatives were implemented to encourage cricket at the grassroots level and enhance the overall quality of the game in India.
Legacy and Honors: Roger Binny's contributions to Indian cricket have been widely recognized and honored. In 1984, he received the prestigious Arjuna Award, which celebrates excellence in sports in India. Binny's name continues to be synonymous with the 1983 World Cup victory, and he remains an inspiration for aspiring cricketers in the country.
On the occasion of Roger Binny's birthday, we celebrate the remarkable journey of a legendary cricketer who represented India with distinction. His outstanding performances on the field, particularly during the 1983 World Cup, will forever be etched in the annals of Indian cricket history. As the current President of the BCCI, Binny continues to make significant contributions to the development and growth of the sport in India. We wish him a very happy birthday and express our gratitude for his immense dedication and service to Indian cricket.
