Who is Mithun Manhas?
Mithun Manhas has emerged as a landmark figure in Indian cricket, selected to become the BCCI president. Born in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir and widely respected for his steadfast devotion to domestic cricket, Manhas is notable for achieving a top administrative role without having played international cricket. At age 45, he carries a long record of leadership, administration, and grassroots development that many believe will shape the sport’s future in India.
According to official announcements, central minister Jitendra Singh congratulated Manhas on his appointment, underscoring the significance of his trail from state-level cricket to the national administrative stage. This makes Manhas one of the most unique presidents in the BCCI’s history—a former domestic stalwart stepping into the top executive role without international caps.
Domestic career and leadership
Manhas’s domestic career is marked by durability and consistency. He featured in 157 first-class matches, amassing 9,714 runs including 27 centuries. In List A cricket, he scored 4,126 runs. These numbers reflect not only a prolific run-scoring record but also a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed over long, grueling seasons—an insight he brings to the board at a time when Indian cricket is recalibrating its domestic structures.
As a Delhi Ranji Trophy captain, Manhas led from the front, guiding the side through challenging periods and instilling a culture of resilience. His leadership in Indian domestic cricket has earned him respect from players, coaches, and administrators alike, and established him as a credible voice on issues ranging from turf conditions to youth development and revenue sharing within the sport.
Manhas also gained exposure on the Indian Premier League (IPL) stage, representing Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, and Pune Warriors. Sharing a dressing room with stars such as Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh gave him first-hand experience of the modern game’s pressures and the importance of professional development for players at every level.
Beyond his on-field roles, Manhas has contributed to cricket in Jammu & Kashmir in both player and administrator capacities. His return to the national stage as BCCI president signals a broader commitment to integrating the country’s diverse cricket ecosystems, from the valleys to the metropolitan grounds, with better facilities and pathways for emerging talent.
The presidency and what it means
As the 37th president of the BCCI, Manhas inherits the responsibility of steering Indian cricket through a period of renewal. The priorities he is expected to champion include strengthening domestic cricket infrastructure, expanding talent pipelines, and ensuring players receive high-quality facilities, coaching, and medical support. His long career in domestic cricket provides him with practical insight into the needs at the grassroots level, which many supporters hope will translate into tangible reforms—such as better domestic schedules, improved stadium facilities, and more supportive governance for state associations.
Manhas’s appointment is also seen as a signal of a broader shift toward expertise in cricket administration. Unlike several past presidents who came from international playing ranks, Manhas’s background in domestic leadership and administration could bring a fresh perspective on how to balance the interests of players, franchises, and state units while preserving competitive integrity.
Salary, perks, and governance
There is discussion around whether the BCCI president receives a salary. The position is widely described as honorary, with no formal salary attached. However, presidents typically receive allowances and reimbursements to cover daily expenses, travel, and official duties. Reports suggest that leadership roles within the BCCI may involve allowances that, in aggregate, can reach several crores of rupees annually. While not a salary in the conventional sense, these allocations support the extensive travel and administrative work required at the helm of Indian cricket.
Conclusion
Mithun Manhas’s rise to BCCI president marks a distinctive moment in Indian cricket governance. With a robust domestic record, IPL exposure, and a track record of leadership in Jammu & Kashmir and Delhi cricket, he brings a pragmatic, player-focused approach to national administration. As India’s cricket audience watches closely, many hope his tenure will strengthen domestic pathways, elevate facilities for aspiring cricketers, and reinforce a sustainable model for the sport’s growth. If his past is any guide, Mithun Manhas could be the architect of a more inclusive and higher-performing Indian cricket ecosystem.
