Introduction: A Historic Appointment
Mithun Manhas has been named the 37th president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), marking a historic moment in Indian cricket. A storied domestic batsman and a respected administrator, Manhas steps into the role without an international playing career, challenging the conventional path to cricket’s top executive seat. The announcement, made by senior government and cricketing officials, signals a shift in how leadership credentials are evaluated in Indian cricket.
From Jammu and Kashmir to Delhi: Early Life and Cricketing Journey
Born in the union territory region of Jammu and Kashmir, Manhas showcased leadership and skill early in his cricketing journey. He moved to Delhi, where he became a mainstay of the Ranji Trophy team and a guiding force in the squad’s growth. His early experiences in the capital helped shape his understanding of domestic cricket’s complexities and potential, laying the groundwork for a career that would blend performance with governance.
Domestic Brilliance and Ranji Trophy Leadership
Manhas is celebrated as one of the enduring stars of India’s domestic circuit. Across 157 first-class matches, he amassed 9,714 runs, including 27 centuries, and added 4,126 runs in List A cricket. Beyond the statistics, his leadership as the Delhi Ranji captain earned him a reputation for steadiness, tactical acumen, and an ability to guide teams through tough phases. His long association with Delhi cricket, both as a player and a leader, underlines a deep commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
IPL Experience and Professional Dresser Rooms
Manhas also tested his leadership and cricketing insights in the Indian Premier League (IPL), turning out for Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, and Pune Warriors. Sharing a dressing room with legends such as Virender Sehwag and Yuvraj Singh provided him with firsthand exposure to high-pressure environments and modern cricket’s evolving demands. These experiences contribute to his broader perspective on talent development, administration, and the importance of professional standards in franchise cricket.
Administrative Roles in Jammu & Kashmir Cricket
Beyond playing, Manhas has served in administrative capacities in Jammu and Kashmir cricket, balancing on-field responsibilities with governance duties. This dual exposure—operational and managerial—helps explain why he resonates with stakeholders across domestic circuits and why his leadership is viewed as capable of bridging regional needs with national ambitions.
Becoming BCCI President: The Road to the Helm
The elevation to BCCI president places Manhas at the helm of India’s most influential cricket body. While his international playing days may be absent, his track record in domestic success, team leadership, and cricket administration has earned him the trust of peers and policymakers. The presidency is widely seen as an opportunity to push structural reforms, strengthen grassroots pathways, and elevate the overall standard of professional cricket in India.
What to Expect Under Mithun Manhas as BCCI President
Analysts anticipate a focus on expanding domestic cricket’s competitiveness, enhancing player welfare, and aligning the sport’s governance with evolving global standards. Given Manhas’s hands-on experience with Ranji Trophy campaigns and IPL environments, expect pragmatic decisions aimed at improving facilities, coaching resources, and the pipeline for young cricketers. His leadership could also foster more robust collaboration between state associations and the central body, ensuring that success at the domestic level translates into sustained national strength.
Compensation and Role: The Reality of the BCCI Presidency
In the BCCI structure, the president serves in an essentially honorary capacity rather than as a salaried employee. While there is no regular salary, presidents receive various allowances, including daily expenses, travel, and official duty reimbursements. Reports have indicated that such roles can involve annual support to the tune of several crores, reflecting the administrative scope and responsibilities tied to India’s most prominent cricket institution.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for Indian Cricket
With Mithun Manhas at the helm, Indian cricket enters a phase where domestic excellence, governance quality, and strategic talent development are likely to gain renewed emphasis. The success or challenges of this era will be measured not only by on-field results but also by the efficiency and inclusiveness of the sport’s leadership at the national level.
