Pragyan Ojha Takes Over as BCCI Selection Panel Chair

Pragyan Ojha Steps Up as Panel Chair

Pragyan Ojha has been appointed as the new chairman of the BCCI's Men's Selection Committee following the departure of Ajit Agarkar. In addition to this leadership change, former India spinner Ramesh Powar has joined the selection panel as a new member.

The Cricket Advisory Committee, consisting of Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, held interviews at the BCCI headquarters and unanimously recommended Powar's appointment. Under BCCI guidelines, the chairperson position is assigned based on seniority determined by the total number of Test matches played, placing Ojha at the head of the committee.

Current Committee Composition and Background

The updated five-member selection team features Pragyan Ojha as chairperson, alongside Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh, Ajay Ratra, and Ramesh Powar. Ojha previously entered the Men's Selection Committee during the BCCI's 94th Annual General Meeting in September 2025 alongside former pacer RP Singh. Throughout his playing career, the left-arm spinner appeared in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs, and six T20Is for India.

Meanwhile, Ramesh Powar brings extensive international playing experience and a robust coaching background to the group. Powar played two Tests and 31 ODIs for India, and has previously managed head coaching roles for the India women's team, Mumbai, and Gujarat, alongside working as a bowling coach at the BCCI Centre of Excellence.

Transition After Ajit Agarkar's Tenure

The transition follows the conclusion of Ajit Agarkar's tenure, which wrapped up after he chose not to seek an extension. During Agarkar's stint as chairman starting in July 2023, the Indian senior men's team secured major victories including the 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups, the 2025 Champions Trophy, two Asia Cup titles, and consecutive Asian Games gold medals. The BCCI formally recognized Agarkar's commitment and the selection panel's role in guiding Indian cricket through a highly successful period.

Sources: The Times of India, Cricinfo, The Hindu.