Mithun Manhas has swiftly risen to the BCCI presidency, a move confirmed at the recent AGM. This step highlights the board’s commitment to keeping top cricket administration roles with former players. His rapid ascension signals a fresh direction for Indian cricket governance.
Choosing Manhas over renowned figures like Sourav Ganguly and Harbhajan Singh brought an element of surprise. Yet, the former Delhi captain is known for his sharp instincts in reading situations. His ability to adapt quickly makes him a strategic choice for this high-profile position.
His track record with the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association speaks volumes. As Director of Cricket Operations, Manhas demonstrated a hands-on approach that yielded real improvements. He transformed cricketing facilities in Jammu and Srinagar, making them more professional and accessible.
Typically, such roles are ceremonial, with occupants avoiding controversy. Manhas, however, immersed himself fully in the responsibilities. At 45, his proactive leadership brought tangible changes to the state’s cricket infrastructure.
One of his key contributions was overseeing the relaying of pitches across Jammu and Kashmir. This upgrade had a profound impact on local cricketers’ performance and morale. Better playing surfaces boosted their confidence against stronger teams.
P Krishna Kumar, the J&K bowling coach, praised the developments. He noted that the new pitches have elevated playing standards significantly. State players now face teams like Mumbai or Baroda with greater assurance and skill.
Several cricketers from the region have made it to the North Zone for the Duleep Trophy. This success is attributed to the administration’s dedicated efforts. Manhas’s experienced and task-oriented leadership has been instrumental in these achievements.
Task-oriented is the defining trait of Manhas’s approach.
The BCCI president role demands immense mental strength due to its visibility and scrutiny. Manhas steps into this position without the legendary player status of his predecessors. He must earn respect through his administrative capabilities and vision.
Previous presidents like Sourav Ganguly and Roger Binny enjoyed instant credibility from their playing days. Manhas lacks that automatic advantage, making his journey more challenging. He must navigate the complex BCCI officialdom to establish his authority.
His background in state-level administration provides a solid foundation. However, the national board presents a tougher environment with veteran administrators. Manhas will need to carve out his own space in these powerful corridors.
Diligence and a strong work ethic are his key assets in this endeavor.
Manhas brings a rich first-class career spanning 157 matches and 9714 runs. Over nearly two decades, he shared dressing rooms with stars like Virender Sehwag and Virat Kohli. This experience has equipped him with deep insights into player dynamics and team management.
As Delhi captain, he led diverse squads without being overshadowed by big names. His skill in maintaining harmony among star players was notable. This people-friendly attitude will be crucial in his new role as BCCI president.
His appointment underscores a shift towards practical leadership in cricket administration. Manhas’s blend of on-field experience and administrative acumen positions him well. The cricket community watches with anticipation as he takes on this challenging responsibility.
The journey ahead for Manhas is filled with opportunities and obstacles. His street-smart nature and task-focused mindset will guide his decisions. Indian cricket stands to benefit from his dedicated and inclusive approach to governance.