Pragyan Ojha has been appointed as the chairman of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Men’s Selection Committee, succeeding Ajit Agarkar. This transition marks a significant change in the leadership of the team responsible for selecting players for India’s senior men’s cricket side.

The decision was made official following a series of interviews conducted by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), which includes Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, at the BCCI headquarters. The committee unanimously recommended Ramesh Powar as a new member of the five-member panel.

Composition of the New Selection Committee

The newly formed selection committee now consists of Pragyan Ojha as chairperson, along with Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh, Ajay Ratra, and Ramesh Powar. Ojha’s elevation to the role of chairperson is based on his seniority, which is determined by the number of Test matches he has played.

His extensive experience in international cricket, having represented India in 24 Tests, 18 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and six Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), positions him as a suitable leader for the committee. Ramesh Powar, who also joins the committee, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach. He has played two Tests and 31 ODIs for India and has previously served as the head coach of the India women’s team, as well as coaching roles at Mumbai and Gujarat.

His coaching experience includes guiding the India women’s team to an Asia Cup title and a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games, further enhancing the committee’s expertise. Ojha’s induction into the selection panel occurred during the BCCI’s 94th Annual General Meeting in September 2025, where he joined alongside former India pacer RP Singh. After serving on the panel for just over a year, he now steps into the chairperson’s role, bringing fresh perspectives to the selection process.

Agarkar’s Tenure and Achievements

Ajit Agarkar’s tenure as chairman of the selection committee came to an end on October 4, 2026. He had been appointed to the position in July 2023 but opted not to seek an extension. Under his leadership, the Indian cricket team achieved significant milestones, including victories in the 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Additionally, the team secured two Asia Cup titles and consecutive gold medals at the Asian Games, marking a successful period for Indian cricket. The BCCI has acknowledged Agarkar’s contributions and commitment during his time in office. The organisation credited the selection committee for its role in steering the team through a successful era, highlighting the achievements that occurred under Agarkar’s guidance.

As the new selection committee takes shape, all eyes will be on Ojha and his team as they prepare to make crucial decisions regarding player selections for upcoming tournaments. The committee’s effectiveness will be closely monitored, especially in light of the recent successes achieved by the Indian cricket team.

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