Mithun Manhas, a former Delhi Ranji Trophy captain and domestic cricket stalwart, is poised to become the next President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Reports indicate that the 45-year-old is the frontrunner to succeed Roger Binny, who is stepping down after turning 70 due to the BCCI's age bar for officeholders. The decision to appoint Manhas was reportedly made during a meeting in Delhi. The official election is scheduled for September 28 at the BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in New Delhi.
Manhas's potential appointment is particularly noteworthy as he never played for the Indian national team. If elected, he would be the first uncapped cricketer to lead the BCCI.
Cricket Career and Background
Mithun Manhas has a distinguished domestic cricket career spanning 18 years. A right-handed batsman, he also bowled off-spin and occasionally kept wickets. His first-class record includes 9,714 runs in 157 matches at an average of 45.82, with 27 centuries and 49 fifties. He was a part of the Delhi Ranji Trophy-winning team in 2007-08. Manhas also has experience in the Indian Premier League (IPL), having represented Delhi Daredevils, Pune Warriors, and Chennai Super Kings between 2008 and 2014. He has played 130 List A matches and 91 T20s.
Post-Retirement Roles
Following his retirement from domestic cricket after the 2017 season, Manhas has been actively involved in cricket administration and coaching. He has served as support staff with the Gujarat Titans in the IPL. He is currently serving as the administrator of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA). He has also represented the state at BCCI's AGMs.
Other Key BCCI Appointments
Along with the appointment of Manhas as President, other key positions within the BCCI are also expected to be filled. Devajit Saikia is expected to continue as BCCI secretary, while Rajeev Shukla will remain vice-president. Prabhtej Bhatia is set to continue as joint secretary. Former India spinner Raghuram Bhatt is expected to take over as treasurer. Arun Dhumal will continue as IPL Chairman.