Mithun Manhas, a former Delhi captain, is on track to become the next president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), a move that would mark him as the first uncapped cricketer to helm the world’s richest cricket board. At 45, Manhas combines a rich cricketing legacy with administrative expertise, positioning him as a strong candidate for the role. The election is slated for September 28, 2025, during the BCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Mumbai. Following the BCCI’s constitutional amendment in 2019, the presidency is likely to be filled unopposed, continuing the trend of appointing former cricketers like Sourav Ganguly (2019-2022) and Roger Binny (2022-2025) to the top post.
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Who is Mithun Manhas?
Manhas has a multifaceted background, blending on-field achievements with off-field administrative contributions. He has served in key roles within the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), including representing the state at BCCI AGMs. His administrative experience complements his storied cricketing career, where he was a mainstay in Indian domestic cricket for nearly two decades.
Manhas debuted in the 1997/98 season, playing as a dependable middle-order batsman for Delhi. His era overlapped with cricketing icons like Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, and Sourav Ganguly, which made international selection elusive. Despite this, he carved out a remarkable domestic career, most notably leading Delhi to the Ranji Trophy title in 2007-08. That season, he amassed 921 runs at an average of 57.56, showcasing his consistency and leadership. A versatile player, Manhas was primarily a right-handed batsman but also bowled off-spin and occasionally donned the wicketkeeper’s gloves.
His career statistics highlight his prowess across formats, as detailed in the table below:
| Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Average | Centuries | Fifties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-class | 157 | 9,714 | 205* | 45.82 | 27 | 49 |
| List A | 130 | 4,126 | 148 | 45.84 | 5 | 26 |
| T20s | 91 | 1,170 | 52 | 21.66 | 0 | 1 |
Manhas has also made significant contributions in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing Delhi Daredevils (2008-2010), Pune Warriors (2011-2013), and Chennai Super Kings (2014). His adaptability and team-oriented approach made him a valuable asset in the T20 format, even if his numbers were modest compared to his first-class record.
Key Milestones in Manhas’ Career
- 1997/98: Made his first-class debut for Delhi, marking the start of a prolific domestic career.
- 2007-08: Captained Delhi to the Ranji Trophy title, scoring 921 runs at an average of 57.56.
- 2008-2014: Played in the IPL for multiple franchises, gaining exposure to high-pressure T20 cricket.
- 2010s onwards: Took on administrative roles with the JKCA, building expertise in cricket governance.
- September 28, 2025: Set to be elected as BCCI president, a historic moment as the first uncapped cricketer in the role.
Why Manhas Stands Out
Manhas’ blend of cricketing acumen and administrative experience makes him a compelling choice for BCCI president. His leadership in guiding Delhi to Ranji glory demonstrates his ability to manage high-stakes situations, while his JKCA tenure reflects his understanding of cricket administration. The BCCI, which oversees a multi-billion-dollar cricketing ecosystem, including the IPL and international tours, requires a leader who can balance tradition with innovation. Manhas’s lack of an international cap is overshadowed by his deep domestic roots and proven track record, positioning him to navigate the complexities of Indian cricket’s governing body.
As the cricketing world awaits the AGM, Manhas is poised to usher in a new era for the BCCI, potentially shaping the future of Indian cricket with his unique perspective as a domestic stalwart.
Additional Records and Achievements
Beyond his career statistics, Manhas achieved several notable records in domestic cricket, showcasing his consistency and impact. The table below highlights key records not previously mentioned:
| Record/Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Most Runs in a Single Ranji Trophy Season (Delhi) | Scored 921 runs in 2007-08, the highest for Delhi in a single season. |
| Highest First-class Partnership | 355-run stand with Rajat Bhatia for Delhi vs. Tamil Nadu (2008). |
| Most Catches in First-class Cricket (Fielder) | Took 107 catches as a fielder in 157 first-class matches. |
| Longest Unbeaten Streak as Captain | Led Delhi to an unbeaten run in 9 consecutive Ranji matches in 2007-08. |
| Fastest List A Century for Delhi | Scored a 108-ball century vs. Railways in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (2006). |
These records underscore Manhas’ reliability and leadership in domestic cricket. His 355-run partnership with Rajat Bhatia remains one of the highest for Delhi in first-class cricket, while his fielding prowess, with over 100 catches, highlights his all-around contribution. His rapid List A century in 2006 showcased his ability to adapt to limited-overs cricket.
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