From Delhi Captain To BCCI Top Job? Mithun Manhas In The Spotlight

Mithun Manhas made headlines on Sunday, September, after emerging as the leading contender to succeed Roger Binny as the president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He is set to officially file his nomination for the position, following a meeting on Saturday where key decision-makers in Indian cricket discussed candidates for several top roles.

Sources indicate that Manhas is likely to be elected unopposed as BCCI president, becoming the latest former player to assume the position, joining the ranks of Binny and Sourav Ganguly. The 45-year-old boasts an impressive domestic career and is notably linked to Virat Kohli.

Who Is Mithun Manhas?

Born on October 12, 1979, in Jammu and Kashmir, Mithun Manhas was a mainstay of Indian domestic cricket, even though he never played for the national team. A versatile player, he batted right-handed, bowled occasional off-spin, and could step in as a wicketkeeper when required.

Manhas often captained Delhi in the absence of national team players. Notably, he led the side when a young Virat Kohli made his debut, forming a strong bond with the future star batsman.

In an interview with Wasaaf Jeelani, Mithun Manhas revealed that he used to call Virat Kohli ‘Appu’ rather than his more common nickname, ‘Cheeku’. Over an 18-year first-class career, Manhas played 157 matches, amassing 9,714 runs at an average just below 46, including 27 centuries and 49 half-centuries.

His standout season came in 2007-08 when he led Delhi to the Ranji Trophy title, ending a long championship drought for the team. That season, he scored 921 runs at an impressive average of 57.56. In 2015, Manhas returned to his home state of Jammu and Kashmir, played for them briefly, and retired the following year.

Which Teams Did Mithun Manhas Represent?

In addition to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, Mithun Manhas played for three IPL teams during his career. He began with the Delhi Daredevils, representing them from 2008 to 2010, before joining the Pune Warriors from 2011 to 2013. In 2014, he moved to the Chennai Super Kings.