• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 06/19/2024
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The race for the North Zone selector’s post in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has heated up, with former Delhi captain Mithun Manhas and current junior national selection panel member Krishan Mohan Sharma emerging as the leading candidates. This position will soon be vacant following the departure of former India speedster Salil Ankola.

Key Contenders for the North Zone Selector Role

According to sources within the BCCI, besides Manhas and Sharma, other notable candidates include Ajay Ratra, a former Haryana cricketer who has previously been interviewed for the role, ex-Punjab all-rounder Reetinder Singh Sodhi, and former India off-spinner Nikhil Chopra.

Salil Ankola, currently a national selector, may transition to the junior selection setup. Despite his competency, the senior selection panel already includes two representatives from West Zone, necessitating Ankola’s move. The BCCI leadership is considering appointing Ankola as the chairman of the junior selection committee, a role deemed more fitting given his experience of playing one Test and 20 ODIs between 1989 and 1997. The junior committee lacks an international player, with former Karnataka wicket-keeper Thilak Naidu serving as its chairman.

Sources reveal that Mithun Manhas has significant backing from the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association, while Nikhil Chopra enjoys strong support from the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA). However, Krishan Mohan’s candidacy is bolstered by an influential former BCCI office-bearer who encouraged him to apply.

“Manhas is interested in the job and also has the blessings of the right people in the board. But you can’t take Krishan Mohan lightly,” said a senior BCCI source tracking the developments.

Krishan Mohan’s Cricketing Background

Krishan Mohan represented Punjab in 45 First-class matches between 1987 and 1993. He was part of the Punjab team that clinched the Ranji Trophy, playing alongside notable players such as Navjot Singh Sidhu, Vikram Rathour, and Gursharan Singh. Should Mohan be appointed, he has the potential to serve a two-year term, given that the BCCI constitution allows a total of five years for individuals who have been members of both the junior and senior selection committees.

Ajay Ratra, who has been interviewed previously, remains a strong contender for the role. His experience as a former Haryana cricketer adds weight to his candidacy. Meanwhile, Reetinder Singh Sodhi, an ex-Punjab all-rounder, is also in contention, bringing his rich cricketing background into play.

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Nikhil Chopra, who has the backing of the DDCA, remains a formidable candidate. His cricketing acumen and support from a strong association make him a noteworthy contender in this race.

The competition remains fierce as the BCCI prepares to fill the North Zone selector’s post. Mithun Manhas and Krishan Mohan Sharma lead the pack with strong backing and significant cricketing credentials. The decision, which is expected soon, will set the course for the selection strategies and cricketing policies in the North Zone.