BCCI Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar’s tenure as Chief Selector ends in September 2026. It was previously believed that his tenure would be extended until the 2027 ODI World Cup, but that is now considered unlikely. Discussions within the BCCI have intensified regarding the selection of a new Chief Selector, with VVS Laxman, the head of the Centre of Excellence in Cricket, being considered a frontrunner.
Agarkar’s term was set to expire in June 2026, but the BCCI granted him a three-month extension. The board was initially considering extending his term until June 2027, but some officials now want VVS Laxman to take over. A final decision on this matter is expected at the BCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September.
Thoughts on VVS Laxman
Some BCCI officials believe that Laxman’s opinion will be more weighted by senior players, such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and that is why he is being considered for the position of chief selector.
Agarkar was appointed the chief selector of the Indian men’s cricket team in July 2023. During his tenure, India won three ICC titles, including two T20 World Cups and one Champions Trophy. However, several decisions regarding team selection have been questioned in the past few months.
Will Laxman be given the responsibility?
According to sources, the BCCI is still considering whether to give Agarkar a one-year extension keeping in mind the 2027 ODI World Cup or hand over the responsibility of the new selection committee to VVS Laxman.
According to reports, the outcome of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka could also play a key role in this decision. If India wins the series, Agarkar’s tenure could be extended. Agarkar himself wants to remain in the position until the 2027 ODI World Cup, but sources say the BCCI has not yet given him any clear assurances.
Controversy over Rohit Sharma playing
The report also claims that some within the Indian team do not want Rohit Sharma to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. During the England tour, a selector discussed the issue with senior BCCI officials. It was reported that Rohit was also spoken to about the matter, but soon after his dismissal in the second ODI against England, news emerged that the match at Lord’s could be his last.
According to reports, some selectors feel they have been treated unfairly. They believe it will be difficult for India to win the 2027 ODI World Cup with Rohit Sharma, while some BCCI officials are changing their stance in light of the social media backlash.
Why was the review meeting postponed?
During the tour of England and Ireland, India lost eight out of ten matches. A meeting was scheduled to review these defeats, but it has not yet taken place. Initially, this meeting was scheduled to take place after the England tour, but the team went straight to Sri Lanka.
According to BCCI sources, the review meeting was postponed due to Board Secretary Devajit Saikia’s ill health. It is now expected to be held soon, with head coach Gautam Gambhir expected to participate online.