Shock Twist: Mithun Manhas Takes Lead in BCCI President Race

In a surprising development, former Delhi captain Mithun Manhas has taken the lead in the race to become the next BCCI president, following a key meeting of senior administrators and decision-makers in New Delhi on Saturday. The session focused on finalizing candidates for various vacant posts ahead of the annual general meeting (AGM) on September 28.

According to PTI, several candidates, including Manhas and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president Raghuram Bhatt, were summoned for discussions. However, Manhas is reportedly the frontrunner for the top post.

Though he never represented India internationally, Manhas has a prolific domestic record: 157 first-class matches, 9,714 runs at an average of 45, 27 hundreds, along with 130 List A and 91 T20 games for Delhi. He has also played in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Daredevils, and Pune Warriors, and served as director of cricket operations with the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA).

Bhatt, a former India spin bowler, is expected to be appointed to another key BCCI position. His tenure as KSCA president ends on September 30, and he may not contest the next state election, scheduled for October or November.

Other appointments under discussion include former India wicketkeeper Kiran More, while the ruling BJP is reportedly advocating for more sportspersons in leadership roles within the board. The BCCI is also looking to name a successor to president Roger Binny and a new IPL chairman, as incumbent Arun Dhumal faces a mandatory cool-off period after six years of service.

On the selectors’ front, it is expected that Pragyan Ojha will replace S Sharath in the Ajit Agarkar-led panel, while RP Singh will come in for Subroto Banerjee. The new selectors will take charge on September 28, ahead of India’s upcoming home Test series against the West Indies.