Mithun Manhas Likely to Become New BCCI President Ahead of AGM

Former Delhi cricketer Mithun Manhas has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Roger Binny as president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), following an informal meeting of senior administrators on September 20, 2025. The gathering, attended by key decision-makers from state associations, focused on shortlisting nominees for several vacant positions ahead of the BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for September 28 in New Delhi.

Reports indicate Manhas received strong support as a consensus figure capable of bridging divides among state units, marking a potential shift toward greater involvement of former players in top administrative roles. The 45-year-old, born in Jammu and Kashmir, is expected to file his nomination on behalf of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), where he previously served as director of cricket operations.

Manhas, an uncapped all-rounder, boasts a distinguished domestic career spanning over a decade. He played 157 first-class matches, amassing 9,714 runs at an average exceeding 45, including 27 centuries, while captaining Delhi in the Ranji Trophy and mentoring young talents like Virat Kohli. His List A record includes 130 matches with consistent performances, and he featured in 91 T20 games.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Manhas represented Chennai Super Kings alongside MS Dhoni, Delhi Daredevils, and Pune Warriors, later transitioning to coaching roles with franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Gujarat Titans. Despite never earning an India cap, his administrative experience and reputation as a team player position him uniquely for the presidency, potentially making him the first uncapped cricketer to lead the BCCI.

The meeting also addressed other key vacancies, including a successor to IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, who faces a mandatory three-year cool-off after six years in office. Incumbent secretary Devajit Saikia and vice-president Rajeev Shukla are poised to retain their positions, while Raghuram Bhat of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is tipped for treasurer. Joint secretary duties may go to Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, with Jaydev Shah representing the apex council.

Speculation around high-profile names like Sourav Ganguly and Harbhajan Singh has faded; Ganguly will attend as the Cricket Association of Bengal's nominee, and Harbhajan as Punjab's, but neither is contesting the top role. Additionally, selection committee reshuffles were confirmed: Pragyan Ojha replaces S. Sharath in the senior men's panel under Ajit Agarkar, Sharath moves to junior chairman, and R.P. Singh joins the senior group, effective post-AGM.

Also Read: Harbhajan Singh Nominated For BCCI Role Ahead Of Annual General Meeting

These developments come at a pivotal time for Indian cricket, with the current senior selection panel tasked with announcing the squad for the upcoming two-Test home series against the West Indies starting October 2, before the new appointees assume duties. The BCCI presidency holds significant influence domestically and internationally, especially with International Cricket Council (ICC) elections looming later in 2025.

Manhas's potential ascension underscores the board's preference for cricketing insiders amid ongoing efforts to professionalise governance. Social media buzz, including posts from cricket enthusiasts and outlets like Republic World, reflects widespread anticipation, though final confirmations are awaited on the morning of September 21.

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