Mithun Manhas Outlines Roadmap for J&K Cricket Infrastructure Following Historic Ranji Season
New Delhi: Following a historic performance in the Ranji Trophy, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) cricket stands on the precipice of a major infrastructural overhaul. Mithun Manhas, the former head of the sub-committee appointed to manage the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), confirmed that significant funding from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will be accessible once the state association receives formal government approval.
Manhas, a domestic cricket veteran and former Delhi captain, clarified the administrative roadmap required to upgrade facilities in the region. The transition from an ad-hoc committee to a fully formed state association is the key to unlocking these financial resources.
Unlocking Funds for Stadium Development
According to Manhas, the procedural groundwork for the state association is complete and currently awaits government sanction. This approval is the final hurdle before capital can flow into development projects.
“Everything is ready with forming the state association. They have gone to the government for approval. Once they get it done, BCCI funds will be unlocked to improve the infrastructure in the state,” Manhas stated. Currently, competitive matches are primarily hosted at the Harbux Stadium in Srinagar and the College Ground in Jammu. Manhas emphasized that the construction of a dedicated cricket stadium with modern amenities is a priority that can commence immediately upon approval.
Strategic Development and Grassroots Initiatives
Reflecting on his tenure leading the JKCA interim body since 2021, Manhas credited BCCI leadership for supporting the region despite the administrative limbo. He highlighted the installation of red-soil pitches in two stadiums, a strategic move designed to prepare local cricketers for diverse playing conditions found across India.
Key Development Metrics (2021–Present)
| Category | Previous Status | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Coaches | 1 (NCA Level 1) | ~40 (NCA Level 2) |
| Infrastructure | Standard Pitches | Red-Soil Pitches Installed |
| Scouting | Ad-hoc | Annual District-level Talent Hunts |
“I must thank Jay Shah, who was the BCCI secretary then, for giving us a free hand and funds to organize the facilities even though we were an ad-hoc committee,” Manhas noted. The development program includes annual talent hunts starting in April, covering every district in the region, and off-season tours for state squads.
Mentorship Over Reliance on Guest Players
The J&K squad has benefited from the presence of veteran batter Paras Dogra. At 41, Dogra has served as a guest player and captain, bringing immense First-Class experience to the dressing room. However, Manhas asserted that the long-term strategy avoids heavy reliance on outstation professionals.
“Dogra’s experience helped these young batters learn to bat for longer periods. But he is the only guest player in the team. We need to give time to the young players to groom into leadership roles,” Manhas explained. This philosophy aligns with the region’s focus on coaching education. The state has seen a massive surge in qualified personnel, rising from a single NCA Level 1 coach to approximately 40 Level 2 certified coaches, ensuring that talent in remote pockets of the state receives professional guidance.
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