Sports · Cricket · 8 hrs ago
Pragyan Ojha takes over as India men’s chief selector
Pragyan Ojha has replaced Ajit Agarkar as India’s chief selector for the men’s cricket team.
Former Mumbai spinner Ramesh Powar has also joined the five-member selection panel.
Ojha takes charge after two years in which Indian cricket changed across formats, while Agarkar’s tenure included major decisions on senior players and captains.
India won two consecutive T20 World Cups and a Champions Trophy during that period, and reached the 2023 50-over World Cup final.
The panel must build a strong squad for next year’s 50-over World Cup, with decisions ahead on players including former captain Rohit Sharma and batter Shubman Gill.
India’s T20 team is described as settled for now, while its Test squad is still taking shape and the one-day team needs attention.
Ojha’s approach to difficult selection calls will be closely watched as he settles into the role.
Pragyan Ojha has taken over as chairman of the BCCI senior men’s selection committee, succeeding Ajit Agarkar.
The BCCI confirmed Ramesh Powar’s appointment to the five-member panel, and Ojha became chief selector by seniority.
The change was announced on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Ojha is taking charge as India prepares for the 2027 50-over World Cup.
The selection panel will face decisions about the team’s composition and leadership ahead of the tournament.
- Who
- Pragyan Ojha, a former India spinner, is the new chief selector.
- What
- He has succeeded Ajit Agarkar as chairman of the BCCI senior men’s selection committee.
- When
- Monday, October 19, 2026.
- Where
- The Board of Control for Cricket in India.
- Why
- Ojha became chief selector by seniority under the BCCI’s rules for the committee.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The Cricket Advisory Committee screened and interviewed applicants and unanimously recommended Ramesh Powar for the selection committee.
The BCCI confirmed Powar’s appointment, and Ojha took over as chief selector from Agarkar.
- New chief selector
- Pragyan Ojha
- Previous chairman
- Ajit Agarkar
- New panel member
- Ramesh Powar
- Committee size
- Five members
- Upcoming tournament
- 2027 50-over World Cup
3 sources
What people are saying
The CAC met at the BCCI HQ to screen and interview applicants and, following the process, unanimously recommended the appointment of Mr Ramesh Powar.
The BCCI places on record its appreciation for Mr Ajit Agarkar for his commitment, conviction and contribution during his tenure as Chairman of the Men’s Selection Committee.
Team first & Team ahead, always.. I must say, History will be kinder to you