Image Source: Times of India
In a surprising yet impactful development in Indian cricket administration, former Delhi captain Mithun Manhas has emerged as the leading candidate to become the next president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Expected to be announced during the BCCI Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 28, 2025, Manhas’s rise marks a potential historic first—he is poised to be the first uncapped Indian cricketer to lead the most powerful cricket board in the world. This newsletter outlines Manhas’s journey from a prolific domestic cricketer to a prominent cricket administrator and why his name is commanding widespread support.
Mithun Manhas: From Cricketing Stalwart to Top Administrator
Manhas, aged 45, enjoyed an illustrious first-class career spanning nearly two decades, playing 157 matches and accumulating close to 9,714 runs at an impressive average of 45.8, including 27 centuries.
Although he never played for the Indian national team, his consistency and leadership in domestic cricket, especially as Delhi’s captain, earned him respect across the cricketing fraternity.
His IPL tenure featured stints with iconic franchises such as Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Daredevils, and Pune Warriors India, where he gained experience in high-pressure environments.
After retirement, Manhas transitioned into cricket administration, notably serving as Director of Cricket Operations with the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA). He also held roles in IPL coaching and development programs.
The Road to the BCCI Presidency
The informal meet of senior BCCI administrators, state cricket associations, and industry key players held recently in Delhi shed light on the contenders for the upcoming presidency.
Mithun Manhas surfaced as the consensus candidate endorsed by most influential cricketing stakeholders seeking a fresh yet steady hand to take charge after Roger Binny.
His calm demeanor, strategic administrative insights, and commitment to grassroots cricket development made him a preferred choice among the decision-makers.
Notable competitors included Raghuram Bhat (KSCA president) and Harbhajan Singh, but Manhas’s blend of cricketing merit and administrative track record gave him an edge.
Significance of Manhas’s Potential Presidency
If elected, Manhas joins a select group of former cricketers such as Sourav Ganguly and Roger Binny who have successfully transitioned into BCCI leadership, reinforcing the trend of player-centric board governance.
His presidency is seen as a positive signal to domestic cricketers, spotlighting pathways beyond international caps to influential positions in Indian cricket.
Manhas is expected to champion reforms aimed at promoting younger talent, improving domestic leagues, and further enhancing India’s stature in global cricket.
The appointment is also closely watched ahead of the ICC elections, during which the BCCI plays a critical role on the international stage.
Official Perspectives and Next Steps
The final nominations for BCCI office bearers close on September 21, with the election scheduled for September 28 during the AGM.
Speculation indicates the elections might be uncontested, following the tradition of consensus-driven appointments since the 2019 BCCI constitution amendment.
Alongside the presidency, elections will be held for other key positions such as IPL chairman and treasurer, with veteran administrators expected to retain significant roles.
Conclusion
Mithun Manhas’s emergence as the frontrunner for the BCCI presidency heralds an exciting new chapter for Indian cricket governance. His journey from a domestic stalwart to the cusp of India’s top cricket administrative post highlights the evolving nature of leadership in sports. The cricket fraternity waits with bated breath for the official announcement, hopeful that Manhas’s tenure will bring dynamic growth, inclusive development, and renewed vigor to Indian cricket’s most influential body.
Sources: Economic Times, News18, MyKhel, CricketWinner, Yardbarker
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