Mithun Manhas takes charge as BCCI president

Former Delhi captain Mithun Manhas was elected the 37th president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) here, succeeding Roger Binny, who resigned last month after reaching the age of 70.

Manhas, 45, a prolific all-rounder, played 157 First-Class, 130 List A, and 55 IPL matches between 1997-98 and 2016-17, amassing 9,714 First-Class runs with 27 centuries and 4,126 List A runs. He emerged as the consensus candidate following discussions among the Board’s key stakeholders in New Delhi earlier this month.

The AGM also confirmed several other important appointments. Devajit Saikia retained his position as BCCI secretary, and Arun Dhumal continued as IPL Governing Council chairman. Former India cricketer Raghuram Bhat was elected treasurer, while Prabhtej Bhatia moved to joint secretary, and Jaydev Shah joined the Apex Council in place of Dilip Vengsarkar.

In a significant move for women’s cricket, Amita Sharma was named chairperson of the BCCI’s women’s selection panel, replacing Neetu David. Sharma, a former India fast bowler with 116 ODIs, will be joined by Shyama Dey, Jaya Sharma, and Sravanthi Naidu. Their tenure begins after the Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka (Sep 30–Nov 2). Former India internationals RP Singh and Pragyan Ojha joined the men’s selection panel, while S Sharath returned to the junior selection committee.

Welcoming Manhas’ election, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh praised having a cricketer at the helm, highlighting his experience as a positive influence. He expressed hope that Manhas would focus on improving infrastructure nationwide, ensuring that young talent is not hindered by a lack of facilities. Harbhajan also urged the BCCI to contribute to flood relief efforts in Punjab and other affected northern states.

Manhas’ election marks a new chapter for the BCCI, combining experienced leadership with a focus on developing cricket across all levels in India.