Ajit Agarkar’s departure as India’s chief selector came amid conflicting reports about why he was leaving. While one account suggested he chose not to seek a contract extension, others linked his exit to differences with the BCCI over Rohit Sharma’s ODI future.
According to PTI’s reporting, the disagreement centred on plans to move on from Rohit after the Lord’s ODI, despite his continued run-scoring. Reports that Rohit had been told it would be his final ODI became public, and the BCCI subsequently backed him and rejected talk of a farewell. This reportedly deepened the differences between Agarkar and the board.
The exact circumstances remain unclear. The Indian Express reported that Agarkar did not seek an extension, while the suggestion that he was pushed out over the dispute has not been officially established.
His departure left the BCCI with two positions to settle: a vacant seat on the selection committee and the role of its chairperson. The board has now confirmed both appointments.
Who Is India’s New Chief Selector?
Pragyan Ojha is India’s new chief selector, with the BCCI confirming his appointment on October 19. He takes over on the basis of seniority, determined by the number of Tests played among the committee members.
Ojha had already been leading the panel on an interim basis following Agarkar’s departure. His appointment now makes that responsibility official.
Ramesh Powar Joins the Selection Committee
Former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar fills the vacancy left by Agarkar. Powar represented India in two Tests and 31 ODIs.
According to Cricbuzz, interviews for the position took place on October 15. Powar was among the candidates considered alongside Mumbai’s Wasim Jaffer and Salil Ankola, and Baroda’s Connor Williams and Jacob Martin.
The Cricket Advisory Committee, comprising Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, unanimously recommended Powar’s appointment. He also brings coaching experience from roles with the Indian women’s team, Mumbai, Gujarat and the BCCI Centre of Excellence.
The updated men’s selection committee is:
| Selector | Role |
|---|---|
| Pragyan Ojha | Chairperson |
| Shiv Sundar Das | Member |
| RP Singh | Member |
| Ajay Ratra | Member |
| Ramesh Powar | Member |
Agarkar’s ICC Success Sets the Standard
Agarkar leaves behind a successful record as chairman. India won the 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups and the 2025 Champions Trophy during his tenure.
There were also two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games gold medals. Those achievements added to India’s success, but the three ICC trophies were the biggest highlights of his time in charge.
The hope now is that Ojha’s committee can help India enjoy similar success. Managing decisions around senior players while preparing the next generation will be an important part of that responsibility.
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