BCCI President Mithun Manhas Reflects on Jammu and Kashmir's Ranji Trophy Triumph
For Mithun Manhas, witnessing Jammu and Kashmir captain Paras Dogra lift the Ranji Trophy was a profoundly emotional moment that transcended mere ceremony. As the current President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Manhas has deep-rooted connections to the region, having been born, raised, and educated there, and concluding his illustrious first-class career representing Jammu and Kashmir. His journey in cricket administration includes serving on a sub-committee appointed by the BCCI to oversee the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), making this victory particularly poignant.
A Domestic Giant's Legacy and New Role
Mithun Manhas is a stalwart of Indian domestic cricket, with a career spanning from 1997-98 to 2016-17. He featured in 157 first-class matches, amassing 9,714 runs, and played a pivotal role in Delhi's Ranji Trophy victory during the 2007-08 season, where he scored an impressive 921 runs. Today, he stands at the helm of Indian cricket administration, but his emotional investment in Jammu and Kashmir cricket runs deeper than any official designation. In an exclusive conversation, Manhas opened up about themes of redemption, reform, the emergence of players like Auqib Nabi, infrastructure hurdles, and the enduring power of belief in the sport.
Emotional Highs and Administrative Challenges
When asked about handing over the Ranji Trophy to Paras Dogra, Manhas described emotions running high, attributing this to the immense effort invested since the sub-committee's appointment in June 2021. "The journey began from scratch, and we gradually built ourselves up," he recalled. He expressed gratitude to BCCI Secretary Jay Shah for his unwavering support over four years, noting that Shah was the first person in 67 years of JKCA history to personally visit grounds, assess realities, and engage with players and staff, which helped set things in motion.
On Paras Dogra's leadership, Manhas highlighted his experience, having played extensively in Himachal and England, which brings calmness and respect to the dressing room. Regarding whether this felt like redemption for his own playing career, Manhas dismissed the notion, emphasizing his new administrative perspective. "This is a new role and opportunity. When results favor your team, satisfaction follows," he stated, acknowledging criticism during reforms but stressing that evolution is constant and belief in the right track paid off.
Spotlight on Auqib Nabi and Discipline in Cricket
Addressing Auqib Nabi's rise, Manhas revealed that Nabi has been integral to the setup since 2021, describing him as "phenomenal" this year with notable performances, including a century in limited-overs cricket. He praised Nabi as a complete player honed through domestic cricket grind, advising youngsters to play at least two to three seasons of first-class cricket to improve.
On instilling discipline, Manhas shared an anecdote about reprimanding IPL players for tardiness, underscoring that mutual respect is crucial for growth. He lamented past instability in Jammu and Kashmir cricket, where 25 to 35 players featured in a single Ranji season, hindering results. "Continuity for players, support staff, selectors, and the Cricket Advisory Committee was key to stability and success," he explained.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Future Prospects
Discussing infrastructure challenges, Manhas pointed out that most players in Jammu and Kashmir grow up on turf wickets, but cricket becomes difficult after October and November due to weather. He noted ongoing discussions with the BCCI for support but clarified that stadium construction is the association's responsibility. With recent elections, he hopes a full-fledged association will soon address asset shortages, as JKCA lacks ownership of grounds in Jammu and Srinagar, relying on college and public facilities.
Manhas advocated for infrastructure expansion beyond major cities to regions like Rajouri, Poonch, and the Chenab Valley to provide proper facilities for diverse players. On sharing expertise, he mentioned that while youngsters might hesitate to approach him, he proactively offers tips based on videos, tailoring advice to individual games.
Confidence in Indian Cricket and T20 World Cup Hopes
Turning to the Indian team, Manhas expressed confidence in Suryakumar Yadav-led squad for the T20 World Cup, urging fans to avoid panic after a single off-day against South Africa. "Back the boys instead of criticizing them. I am confident they will bring the trophy home," he asserted, highlighting the team's strength and the natural pressure of World Cup tournaments.
This candid insight from Mithun Manhas not only celebrates Jammu and Kashmir's historic Ranji Trophy win but also sheds light on the transformative efforts in regional cricket, blending personal passion with administrative acumen for a brighter future.
