3 names who could replace Ajit Agarkar as India's chief selector

Ajit Agarkar's time as Chairman of India's Senior Men's Selection Committee appears to be drawing to a close. Appointed on July 4, 2023, he replaced Chetan Sharma and went on to pick squads for three major ICC events, including the ODI World Cup 2023, the T20 World Cup 2024, and the T20 World Cup 2026.

Reports suggest that a one-year extension for Agarkar is unlikely, with neither the chief selector nor BCCI officials moving forward with it. The September 16 selection meeting, where squads for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against the West Indies were announced, may have been his last. The BCCI's Annual General Meeting is expected to decide the matter, after which office-bearers have been given authority to finalise the new appointment.

Here are 3 replacement options for Ajit Agarkar as India's chief selector

3. Pragyan Ojha

Pragyan Ojha is widely regarded as a frontrunner for the top selection role. He is already a sitting member of the five-man committee headed by Agarkar, alongside Shiv Sundar Das, Ajay Ratra, and R.P. Singh. His familiarity with the current system and his working knowledge of the panel's processes make him what many observers describe as the most straightforward option available to the BCCI.

Ojha represented India in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs, and 6 T20Is, claiming 113 wickets in Test cricket alone. His active presence on the existing selection panel means he already understands the demands of the role. He is also reported to have strong connections within the BCCI, which could smooth any transition if he were elevated to the chairman's position.