Former India spinner Pragyan Ojha has been appointed chairman of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) senior men’s selection committee, replacing Ajit Agarkar. The board announced the new committee on October 19, with former India spinner Ramesh Powar joining as a new member.
The five-member panel comprises Pragyan Ojha, Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh, Ajay Ratra and Ramesh Powar. The Cricket Advisory Committee, consisting of Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, conducted the selection process and unanimously recommended Powar for the vacant position. Ojha will chair the panel based on seniority, measured by the number of Test matches played.
Ojha represented India in 24 Tests, 18 One-Day Internationals and six T20 Internationals. Powar played two Tests and 31 ODIs and later held several coaching roles, including head coach of the Indian women’s team.
Agarkar’s tenure began in July 2023. During his time as chairman, Indian teams won three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and two consecutive Asian Games gold medals, according to the BCCI.
The appointments have also drawn attention to questions about the selection process. However, the BCCI’s official announcement confirms that Ojha will lead the committee based on seniority. Any claim that his appointment violates eligibility rules would require clear evidence from the relevant regulations. The published announcement does not establish such a violation.
The new panel will be responsible for selecting India’s senior men’s teams for upcoming international assignments.
