New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has started the process of appointing the new chairman of the selection committee of the men's cricket team. Current chief selector Ajit Agarkar is unlikely to get a contract extension. The current tenure of the former Indian fast bowler, who was appointed to this post in July 2023, ends on October 4. Earlier it was believed that Agarkar would be given extension till the 2027 ODI World Cup, but due to recent controversies and differences, the board has now started looking for a new face.
Ajit Agarkar angry with BCCI's interference
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has been hurt by the statement of BCCI Secretary. The selection committee had informed the board about its decision even before talking to Rohit.
There is talk of sourness in the relations between Agarkar and BCCI due to the interference of the board. Meanwhile, the Agarkar-led selection committee announced the squad for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies.
Dispute between board and selectors on Rohit Sharma's future
The main reason for the tension between the selection committee and BCCI is the difference of opinion regarding the future of former captain Rohit Sharma. According to sources, the Agarkar-led committee had made it clear to Rohit Sharma that he is no longer a part of the future plans and the youngsters will be given a chance keeping the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind.
The decision of ODI career was left to Rohit, who had retired from Test and T20. Amidst the uproar created by this news, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia made it clear in a public statement that there is no plan to force Rohit into retirement and as long as he is in the race for selection, he will continue to be selected.
Parthiv and Ojha in the race
Ajit Agarkar's tenure has been very golden for Indian cricket. Under his leadership, India ended its ICC trophy drought by winning the 2024 T20 World Cup, followed it up by capturing the Champions Trophy in 2025 and then successfully retained the T20 World Cup title earlier this year. Amidst the news of Agarkar's departure, BCCI has given priority to two names for the new president. Among these, the names of former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Parthiv Patel and current selection committee member Pragyan Ojha are leading.