Pragyan Ojha replaces Ajit Agarkar as BCCI selection committee chairman, Ramesh Powar joins panel

Pragyan Ojha replaces Ajit Agarkar as chairman (Agency Images) Pragyan Ojha will take over as the chairman of the BCCI selection committee following the departure of Ajit Agarkar, while former India spinner Ramesh Powar has been named as a new member of the five-member panel, marking a change in the team responsible for selecting India’s senior men.The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, held interviews at the BCCI headquarters before unanimously recommending Powar’s appointment. Ojha will chair the committee based on seniority, determined by the number of Test matches played.The new selection committee consists of Pragyan Ojha (Chairman), Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh, Ajay Ratra and Ramesh Powar.

Agarkar’s tenure ends after major ICC triumphs

Appointed as chairman in July 2023, Agarkar completed his term on 4 October 2026 after deciding not to seek an extension. During his tenure, India won the 2024 and 2026 World T20 Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, while also winning two Asia Cup titles and Asian Games gold medals.The BCCI recognized Agarkar’s commitment and contribution and credited the selection committee in honoring a successful period of Indian cricket.

Ojha joined the panel in September 2025

Ojha was inducted into the men’s selection committee at the BCCI’s 94th Annual General Meeting in September 2025 along with former Indian pacer RP Singh. He now takes on the role of chairman after serving on the panel for just over a year.The former left-arm spinner has represented India in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs and six T20Is. His Test experience ranks him ahead of other members of the current panel as per BCCI’s seniority criteria.Meanwhile, Powar brings both international playing experience and a significant coaching background to the committee. He represented India in two Tests and 31 ODIs and served as the head coach of the Indian women’s team in Mumbai and Gujarat, besides working as the bowling coach at the BCCI Center of Excellence.During her tenure with the Indian women’s team, Powar led the side to the Asia Cup title and a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games.

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