VIKAS SHARMA
JAMMU, SEPT 21: In what could be a historic moment for entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, former cricketer Mithun Manhas — once a boy from the bylanes of Jammu who rose through the ranks of Indian domestic cricket — is now set to take over as the new President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), according to reports.
If confirmed, Manhas would not only become the first cricketer from J&K to head the world’s richest cricket board but also a symbol of inspiration for thousands of aspiring players from the region.
From Jammu to Delhi: The Rise of a Cricketer
Born on October 12, 1979, in Jammu, Mithun Manhas started his cricketing journey in a region where sporting infrastructure was limited. With grit and determination, he made his way into competitive cricket and soon realized that opportunities at the national level would be brighter in Delhi. Moving to the capital proved a turning point — Manhas debuted for Delhi in domestic cricket in the late 1990s and quickly established himself as a dependable middle-order batsman.
Known for his composure and consistency, he became one of Delhi’s leading run-scorers and even captained the side in Ranji Trophy tournaments. Over his long first-class career, Manhas scored more than 9,000 runs, including several centuries, placing him among India’s most prolific domestic cricketers never to wear the India cap.
Breaking Ground: First J&K Player in IPL
Manhas also scripted history by becoming the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He represented Delhi Daredevils, Pune Warriors India, and Chennai Super Kings during his franchise career. His IPL presence broke barriers, proving that players from regions with limited exposure could still shine on the biggest stages of Indian cricket.
Transition to Coaching and Administration
After retiring from active cricket, Manhas seamlessly transitioned into coaching and cricket administration. He served as part of coaching and support staff for IPL franchises like Gujarat Titans and contributed to nurturing emerging cricketers at the state and franchise levels. His administrative acumen and clean image gradually earned him respect within the cricketing establishment.
Set to Lead BCCI
Now, reports claim that Manhas is set to take over as the next BCCI President, succeeding Roger Binny. While the official confirmation is awaited, the development has already sparked excitement not only in cricketing circles but also across Jammu and Kashmir. For a region that has often struggled to find representation in Indian cricket’s power corridors, this is being hailed as a watershed moment.
Observers believe Manhas’s elevation is a recognition of both his cricketing journey and his administrative contributions. “It’s a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir. Mithun Manhas has always carried the hopes of the region, and now he will lead Indian cricket at the global stage,” said a senior JKCA official.
Symbol of Aspiration for J&K Youth
For the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, Manhas’s story represents the power of perseverance. His journey from local grounds in Jammu to potentially the helm of world cricket governance serves as a reminder that talent from the region can indeed break national barriers. Local cricket enthusiasts say this development may also drive renewed investment in sports infrastructure in J&K, which has long lagged behind.
What Lies Ahead
As BCCI President, Manhas will inherit the responsibility of managing India’s cricketing roadmap, overseeing domestic reforms, and shaping the board’s international relations. His appointment would come at a crucial time, with the Indian team preparing for major tournaments and the BCCI expanding its influence globally.
For Jammu, however, this is more than just about cricket politics — it is a story of pride. The son of the soil who once carried a bat for Delhi now looks set to carry the hopes of Indian cricket on his shoulders.
