BCCI extends Ajit Agarkar's term as men's chief selector till June 2026: Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has extended Ajit Agarkar's tenure as chairman of the senior men's selection committee until June 2026, according to a report by The Indian Express. The decision reportedly comes after a successful period for Indian cricket under Agarkar's leadership.

Appointed in July 2023, Agarkar has overseen notable milestones for the national side, including reaching the final of the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup and securing victories at the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. These achievements have been seen as key factors influencing the BCCI's decision to retain him.

"Under his tenure the Indian team won titles and had seen transition (of the Tests and T20) too. The BCCI had extended his contract till June 2026 and he had accepted the offer a few months back," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

The current selection panel includes Agarkar alongside SS Das, Subroto Banerjee, Ajay Ratra, and S Sharath. The report suggests that changes to the committee may be considered at the BCCI's Annual General Meeting in September. Sharath is likely to be replaced, while the positions of Das and Banerjee are also under review. Following the meeting, the board is expected to open applications for new appointments to the selection committee.

Changes are also anticipated in the senior women's and junior men's selection committees. The women's panel, comprising Neetu David, Arati Vaidya, and Mithu Mukherjee, has completed its five-year term—the maximum tenure permitted under BCCI regulations. The board is expected to invite applications for new members in the coming weeks.

Agarkar has spoken about the selection committee's approach to player workload management, particularly in relation to fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Addressing concerns about Bumrah's fitness, Agarkar stated that there was no formal workload plan but added that coordination between the team management and medical staff remained ongoing.

"Obviously, there's been a nice break after the England series as well. The team management, the physios, or the people concerned are always in touch. It's not just now. Even before his injury, we've tried to look after him because we know how valuable he is," Agarkar had said.

Agarkar's extended term is set to coincide with a pivotal phase for Indian cricket, which includes preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup and the 2027 ODI World Cup.