Skipper Mithun Manhas would be under pressure to perform as J&K is going to take on Himachal Pradesh in its Group-C Ranji Trophy match at JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi on Saturday.
The sixth placed team J&K will take seventh placed side Himachal in the crucial tie as not much separates the two on points table and in performance. Though Himchal is yet to taste defeat in the event, it still trails J&K by one point on points table. J&K owing to first lead points in a draw match is better placed than Himachal despite tasting defeat in one match.
Both sides look match to each other with right bit of balance inducted. From Himachal side, skipper Rishi Dhawan would be major threat for J&K as he is good form.
However, from J&K side, questions are being raised on non-performance of veteran skipper Mithun Manhas. The former Delhi batsman has failed miserably this season scoring mere 28 runs in three matches. Apart from his batting failure, his captaincy skills have also come under question after J&K lost match against Andhra Pradesh despite getting first inning lead. His use of bowlers is the biggest question mark on his captaincy and also bringing in outside State players on his influence by J&K Cricket Association is also being criticized.
Hailing from J&K, Manhas has played most of his trade for Delhi during his prime. He was considered rock in Delhi batting line up. However, with age catching on him and loss of form, he lost his place in Delhi side. It was after that Manhas opted to play for home State after having initially declined offer.
The pressure will be Manhas when J&K will take on Himachal in a crucial tie on Saturday. He need to score runs otherwise his own place in J&K side will be in trouble. There are many local youngsters waiting for the place to fill in. J&K Cricket Association selectors are already under pressure as they have been accused of favoritism in selection process by leaving out players like Ahmad Omar Banday, Owais Shah, Mehjoor, Mudassar, Imran Haroon, Obaid Haroon and Sameer Ali. Selectors will keep close eye on Manhas during the match. (Courtesy Greater Kashmir)