The Board of Control Cricket in India 1928-53 by Chi A.N Ghose is a detailed historical account of the formative years of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), covering its inception in 1928 through to 1953. The book chronicles the establishment of the BCCI as the central governing body for cricket in India, its early challenges, key personalities involved, and the evolution of Indian cricket during a period that includes colonial rule, the struggle for independence, and the early years of independent India. It provides insights into the administrative, cultural, and sporting aspects that shaped Indian cricket and the BCCI’s role in promoting the game nationally and internationally.

This book is a seminal work that documents the origins and early growth of the BCCI, providing an authoritative historical record of Indian cricket administration during a crucial period. It serves as a primary source for understanding how Indian cricket transitioned from a colonial pastime to a national passion and how the BCCI established itself as a powerful and influential body. The detailed account of the board’s formation and its early years offers valuable lessons in sports governance, organization, and nation-building through sport.

Formation and Early Administration: The book explores the circumstances leading to the creation of the BCCI in 1928, including the unification of various regional cricket associations and the role of influential figures such as R.E. Grant Govan and Anthony De Mello. It highlights the political and social negotiations that enabled India’s inclusion in the Imperial Cricket Council (ICC) in 1926 and the subsequent formalization of the BCCI.Development of Indian Cricket Infrastructure: Ghose details the establishment of domestic cricket structures, notably the Ranji Trophy in 1936, which became the premier first-class cricket championship in India. The book discusses how cricket infrastructure and talent development were fostered through these initiatives, laying the foundation for India’s competitive presence in international cricket.International Recognition and Early Matches: The narrative covers India’s debut in Test cricket in 1932 at Lord’s under captain C.K. Nayudu and significant milestones such as Lala Amarnath’s maiden Test century in 1933. It also touches on the challenges faced in organizing international tours during the pre- and post-independence era.Cricket and National Identity: The book reflects on cricket’s role as a unifying cultural force in India, transcending regional and communal divides. It illustrates how cricket became intertwined with India’s national identity and pride, especially in the context of colonial rule and the emerging independence movement.Governance and Challenges: Ghose discusses early administrative challenges, including the need for coordination among diverse regional bodies, financial management, and the balancing act between amateur ideals and professional demands in Indian cricket administration.

Cricket in India is more than just a sport; it is a cultural phenomenon that unites a diverse population. Ghose’s book captures this cultural significance by showing how the BCCI played a pivotal role in institutionalizing cricket as a national sport. The book highlights cricket’s role in fostering a sense of collective identity and pride among Indians during the colonial era and after independence. It also reflects the sport’s capacity to bridge social and regional divides, contributing to India’s cultural cohesion.

The establishment and growth of the BCCI as chronicled in the book had profound effects on Indian society and the country’s international image. By organizing cricket on a national scale and gaining international recognition, the BCCI helped position India as a serious competitor in the global cricketing community. This fostered national pride and provided a platform for India to assert itself culturally and politically on the world stage. The book illustrates how cricket became a vehicle for social mobility and national integration, influencing societal values and aspirations.

The Board of Control Cricket in India 1928-53 by Chi A.N Ghose is a foundational text that offers an in-depth historical perspective on the early years of Indian cricket administration. It documents the challenges, achievements, and cultural impact of the BCCI during a transformative era. The book underscores the importance of cricket in India’s national narrative and the role of effective governance in nurturing the sport’s growth. It remains a crucial reference for historians, cricket enthusiasts, and scholars interested in the intersection of sport, culture, and national identity in India.This summary synthesizes the historical context and significance of the BCCI’s early years as reflected in the book, drawing on the broader history of Indian cricket and its governance from 1928 to the early 1950s.