From Bhalessa to cricket’s top office, who is Mithun Manhas, the new BCCI president?

September 29, 2025 by News Desk

Sadaket Malik

A wave of jubilation swept through Bhalessa in Jammu Kashmir as its illustrious son, Mithun Manhas, assumed the most powerful post in Indian cricket, President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The 45-year-old former cricketer succeeds Roger Binny, who stepped down upon turning 70, becoming the 37th president of the world’s richest cricket board.

For the people of Bhalessa, a region nestled in the Chenab range, known for its meadows, streams, and cultural heritage, the moment carries deep emotional significance. Celebrations erupted across villages such as Soti Gandoh, Jitota, Chilli, Neeli, and Bathri, with residents distributing sweets, bursting crackers, and rejoicing at the rise of a son of the soil to Indian cricket’s top office.

Born on October 12, 1979, Mithun Manhas traces his roots to Bhalessa in Doda district, a place known for its traditions, hospitality, and strong community values. Despite limited infrastructure and exposure, his perseverance saw him carve one of the most successful careers in Indian domestic cricket.

Manhas began his journey representing Jammu Kashmir at the Under-15 and Under-19 levels. His consistent performances earned him a place in Delhi’s Ranji Trophy team, a move that defined the next two decades of his career.

Over 18 years of first-class cricket, he scored 9,714 runs in 157 matches at an average of nearly 45, with 27 centuries and 49 half-centuries. As Delhi captain, he led the team to its 2007–08 Ranji Trophy victory after a long drought, cementing his reputation as one of the most dependable and disciplined domestic cricketers.

In the IPL, Manhas represented Delhi Daredevils, Pune Warriors India, and Chennai Super Kings, sharing dressing rooms with legends such as M.S. Dhoni, Rahul Dravid, and Virender Sehwag. Though he never played internationally, his domestic and IPL record earned him lasting respect among peers and fans.

After retirement, he transitioned into coaching and administration, serving as assistant coach and batting consultant with Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kings XI Punjab, and Gujarat Titans, and mentoring Bangladesh’s Under-19 team. Known for his calm demeanor and technical insight, he quickly became a sought-after figure in cricketing circles.

His elevation to BCCI president marks the culmination of decades of service to the game, from grassroots cricket to elite administration. He is expected to bring a modern perspective to the board, focusing on nurturing local talent, expanding cricket’s reach to remote regions, and ensuring greater transparency in governance.

The Bhalessa Heritage Centre, a cultural and educational organization, hailed the appointment as a “moment of immense pride.”

Its president, Sadaket Malik, said. “Mithun Manhas’ rise from the valleys of Bhalessa to the BCCI presidency is an inspiration for every youngster in Jammu and Kashmir. His journey proves that talent, when coupled with hard work and integrity, can overcome every barrier. He represents the resilience that defines our people.”

For Jammu and Kashmir, which continues to produce talent despite challenges, his rise stands as a beacon of encouragement. It symbolizes that ambition cannot be confined by geography, passion, discipline, and perseverance can transform even the humblest beginnings into national triumphs.

As the celebrations continue, one message rings out: Bhalessa has given India not just a cricket leader, but a source of enduring inspiration.