Will Agarkar get an extension as chief selector? BCCI leaves final decision to office-bearers

MUMBAI: The BCCI has reportedly authorised its office-bearers to take the final decision on whether India men's cricket team chief selector Ajit Agarkar should get an extension. The decision was taken at the Board's Annual General Meeting (AGM).

With Agarkar's contract set to end on October 4, discussions are underway on whether his tenure should be extended or a new chief selector should be appointed. A senior BCCI official said after the meeting that the office-bearers have been authorised to take decisions related to the selection committees.

Representatives of various state associations attended the BCCI's 95th AGM. Former India captain Sourav Ganguly, representing the Cricket Association of Bengal, and former pacer Venkatesh Prasad, representing the Karnataka State Cricket Association, were among those present. Apart from deciding Agarkar's future as the head of the senior selection committee, the board is also considering filling five vacancies in the junior selection committee.

Agarkar took charge as chairman of the men's senior selection committee in July 2023. If the board decides against extending his tenure, it will not be possible to appoint his replacement immediately. The BCCI will first invite applications for the post and conduct interviews before selecting the next chief selector. The process is therefore likely to take some time. The selection committee will have a crucial role in preparing the team for upcoming series and major tournaments.