The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has released a notice to recruit two new selectors. The recruitment notice, released ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, has triggered speculations about who could step down and who may step in.

According to media updates, the recruitment process is mainly because of a part of adjustments in roles and responsibilities within the committee, not because of performance review. "The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) invites applications for positions on its Senior Men’s, Women’s, and Junior Men’s Selection Committees," the Board wrote in the notice.

For men's cricket, BCCI invites applications for 2 positions, and for women's cricket, the recruitment process is for 4 positions in the national selectors committee. BCCI, in the notice, mentioned all the criteria clearly. The person who wants to apply for the men's cricket selector position must have experience playing a minimum of 7 Test Matches OR 30 First-Class Matches OR 10 ODIs and 20 First-Class Matches and must have retired from the game at least 5 years prior. As the third criterion BCCI set:Must not have been a member of any Cricket Committee of the BCCI for a cumulative period of 5 years. 

NEWS - BCCI invites applications for positions on its Senior Men’s, Women’s, and Junior Men’s Selection Committees.

More details here - https://t.co/VwyzZNsU9t pic.twitter.com/is3xfvs53c

— BCCI (@BCCI) August 22, 2025

Read More: 'Using the money we didn’t spend on Yuzi...'- RCB director reveals their thoughts during IPL 2025 mega auction

Who can be replaced?

As per speculations, Pragyan Ojha is one of the frontrunners to join the Ajit Agarkar-led selector panel. Currently, the five-member senior selection committee includes chairman Ajit Agarkar, Ajay Ratra, Shiv Sundar Das, Subroto Bannerjee, and S. Sharath. 

Media reports further claimed that BCCI can ask Sharath and Bannerjee to take over new roles. Agarkar’s contract will be valid until September 2026, which means he'll be in charge during the next T20 World Cup also. 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing for a major shake-up in both its men’s and women’s selection committees. On Friday, the board released an advertisement inviting applications for two men’s national selectors, four women’s selectors, and one junior men’s selector. The deadline for applying is September 10.

As per BCCI’s rules, candidates applying for men’s national selector positions must have played at least seven Tests and 30 first-class matches, or 10 ODIs and 20 first-class games. However, these eligibility rules don’t apply to women’s selectors or junior selectors. Another important rule is that every applicant must have retired from cricket at least five years ago.

ALSO READ: OTD: Michael Clarke bid adieu to international cricket

Currently, the women’s selection panel is headed by former left-arm spinner Neetu David, along with Aarti Vaidya, Shama Shaw, and Renu Margret. Their term ends in September, and the board is planning a complete revamp. Interestingly, this same panel recently picked the 15-member squad for the Women’s World Cup to be played in India and Sri Lanka from September 30.

On the men’s side, the current selection committee is led by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, with members Shiv Sunder Das, Subroto Banerjee, Ajay Ratra, and Sridharan Sharath. According to reports, former India spinner Pragyan Ojha is the frontrunner to replace Sharath from the South Zone, whose term ends next month. Sharath may return as junior chief selector, a role he had held when India won the Under-19 World Cup in 2022.

Pragyan Ojha Will Take Over as Men’s Panel Member from Sridharan Sharath

Ojha was a successful left-arm spinner, who had a successful career as a bowler in that region and an impact bowler/news-maker on turning tracks. The former India bowler, who played 24 Tests (113 wickets), has also played 40 ODIs (21 wickets), and 24 T20Is (6 wickets) since also retiring in 2020. Also, Ojha has plenty of experience, along with knowledge of the game, to suggest he should be an easy recommendation for a strong role.

BCCI Reminder - Top Players Must Play Domestic Whenever Possible

At the same time, the BCCI has also reminded state associations that centrally-contracted players must play domestic tournaments when they are available. The reminder comes after players like KL Rahul, and Mohammed Siraj, which was not picked for the Duleep Trophy. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that it is a reminder for the top players to strengthen the game and domestic cricket when there is no international schedule.

The final appointments will be ratified at the BCCI's Annual General Meeting expected next month. With these appointments, the board will add more energy and fresh ideas to the selection process and promote India's top players to connect with domestic cricket.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a massive step in the role of their chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar. They have decided to extend the former all-rounder’s contract till June 2026. Since he was appointed as the chairman of the selection committee, India has become the runner-up of the ODI World Cup 2023, won the T20 World Cup 2024, and the Champions Trophy 2025. 

The reports of the Indian Express have revealed that his contract was renewed a few months back, just before the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). During his tenure, several players retired from various formats for the Blue Brigade, including Ravichandran Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma.

See Also: Star South Africa player reported for suspect bowling action

“Under his tenure, the Indian team had won titles and had seen transition (of the Tests and T20) too. The BCCI had extended his contract till June 2026, and he had accepted the offer a few months back.” The reports of the Indian Express, as quoted by a BCCI official. Recently, under his tenure, India announced the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025.

BCCI decides to extend Ajit Agarkar’s contract till June 2026

Suryakumar Yadav was named the T20I captain of the side during Agarkar’s tenure, while Gautam Gambhir became the head coach. Shubman Gill also got the responsibility of leading the red-ball side while getting the job of vice-captaincy of the national side for the Asia Cup 2025. Recently, under his captaincy, India drew the five-match Test series 2-2.

The men’s selection committee already included Agarkar, SS Das, Subroto Benerjee, Ajay Ratra, and S Sharath. The report claimed that the annual general body meeting in September could see a few changes being made. Sharath is likely to get replaced with a new face, while there are questions on Das and Banerjee in the committee.

Along with that, changes are also expected to be made in the senior women and junior men selection committees. The senior women's selection committee is comprised of Neetu David, Arati Vaidya, and Mithu Mukherjee, and has completed five years. The BCCI is also expected to invite applications for the women’s selection committee as well.

The former chief selector of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Kris Srikkanth, has slammed the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee and the T20I captain of the Blue Brigade, Suryakumar Yadav, for removing Axar Patel from the vice-captaincy for the Asia Cup 2025. He also questioned the presence of Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh, and Shivam Dube.

Srikkanth has struggled to find a reason for the removal of vice-captaincy for Axar, who was in charge during the home five-match T20I series against England earlier this year. Shubman Gill replaced the left-arm spin all-rounder in that position, as Srikkanth also predicted that even if the national side went on to the Asia Cup 2025, they might not do the same with the T20 World Cup 2026.

See Also: CPL 2025, Match 06: St Kitts and Nevis Patriots vs Saint Lucia Kings full match highlights and scorecard

“We might win the Asia Cup with this team, but there is no chance of winning the T20 World Cup with this bunch. Are you going to take this team to the World Cup? Is this the preparation for the T20 World Cup, which is hardly six months away?” The former opening batter of India expressed on his YouTube channel.

Kris Srikkanth questions India’s decision to appoint Shubman Gill as vice-captain for Asia Cup 2025

In the press conference, Suryakumar added that Gill was always in the position of vice-captaincy. But they had to change it because the Punjab-born couldn’t play many T20Is due to the Champions Trophy 2025 and several other ODI and Test series, including the Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 and recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy (ATT) 2025.

“They have gone backwards. Axar Patel has been axed from vice-captaincy. I don’t know how Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, and Harshit Rana have come in. IPL is considered the main criterion for selection, but the selectors seem to have considered performances before that.” The former Tamil Nadu opener reckoned.

India’s opening contest of the Asia Cup 2025 will be against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on September 10 before they lock horns with the arch-rivals, Pakistan, on September 14, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

The omission of Shreyas Iyer from India’s 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 has triggered heated discussions among fans and cricketing circles. Announced on August 19, the squad left out Iyer despite his impressive IPL 2025 campaign, where he led Punjab Kings to the final with consistency and leadership. His absence came as a shock, considering his reputation as one of India’s most reliable middle-order batters. The decision has raised doubts about whether cricketing logic alone drove the call, or if personal dynamics with head coach Gautam Gambhir influenced matters.

Former cricketer Abhishek Nayar openly questioned the selection during a Star Sports panel, suggesting that favoritism may have shaped the choices. He hinted that Iyer might not have been “favoured” in comparison to others. Social media chatter quickly amplified the issue, with fans accusing Gambhir of bias towards players associated with his old IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders. The selections of Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh, despite limited achievements, added fuel to claims of preferential treatment and deepened suspicions about Iyer’s snub.

See Also: Highlights of India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad: Gill, Bumrah return; Shreyas, Yashasvi left out

The debate has highlighted the fine balance between form, talent, and selection politics in Indian cricket. Many believe Iyer’s exclusion is difficult to justify on performance grounds alone, given his IPL contributions and experience at the highest level. His absence not only leaves a gap in India’s middle-order strength but also raises concerns about transparency in squad building. While selectors have defended the call as a tough but necessary decision, the controversy continues to spark debates about whether personal bias overshadowed merit in the final squad announcement.

Sunil Gavaskar suspects rift between Iyer and Gambhir 

Adding to the controversy, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar weighed in, subtly pointing out that Iyer had been overshadowed during KKR’s IPL 2024 title-winning campaign. Gavaskar hinted that while Iyer captained the side, much of the credit went to Gambhir, sidelining the skipper’s contribution. His remarks suggested that Iyer may have once again suffered from being undervalued despite consistent performances. Gavaskar’s comments intensified speculation about whether Iyer’s exclusion was more than just a tactical decision, giving further weight to the narrative of a rift.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar defended the decision after Shreyas Iyer snub

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar, however, defended the decision and emphasized the competitiveness of team selection. He clarified that Iyer’s omission should not be seen as a reflection of his talent but rather a result of balancing the squad. Agarkar said, “With respect to Shreyas Iyer… not his fault, but neither ours,” highlighting that tough calls had to be made due to limited squad spots. His explanation portrayed the situation as more of a structural challenge than an intentional sidelining of the batter.

Amidst the storm of accusations, Gautam Gambhir addressed the rumors directly, denying any involvement in Iyer’s exclusion. The head coach firmly distanced himself from the selectors’ decisions, reiterating, “I am not a selector.” He insisted that the squad was picked on merit and team requirements, dismissing claims of bias or personal conflict. While Gambhir’s clarification aimed to cool the controversy, questions continue to linger. With Iyer’s omission remaining one of the most talked-about topics in Indian cricket, the debate over his future in the national setup shows no signs of fading.

The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28. The tournament will feature eight competitive teams, all aiming to lift the prestigious trophy in what promises to be an exciting cricketing contest.

India has already revealed its squad for the event, showcasing a strong and balanced lineup. The selectors have ensured that the team includes experienced performers as well as young talents who can make a difference on the big stage. With a packed schedule and intense competition expected, India’s preparation looks solid going into the tournament.

However, the squad announcement also brought mixed emotions for fans. While some big names have successfully made a comeback to the side, others were left out of the tournament. These selection decisions are likely to spark discussions, but they also highlight the depth of talent available in Indian cricket today.

See Also: Asia Cup 2025: Strongest Playing XI for India

Highlights of India’s Squad for Asia Cup 2025:

After announcing the squad, Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav spoke to the media, discussing team selections, player roles, and India’s preparations for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

They discussed player selections, exclusions, and the overall balance of the team. Both provided clarity on the decision-making process and highlighted key aspects of the squad, offering insights into India’s plans for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025.

• Shubman Gill included in the Asia Cup Squad as Vice Captain

Shubman Gill has returned to India’s T20 squad after a long gap, with his last appearance in the shortest format coming during the Sri Lanka series in July 2024. Over the past year, he has impressed with consistent and impactful performances in other formats, which eventually earned him a well-deserved comeback. Gill has been appointed vice-captain for Asia Cup 2025, reflecting the selectors’ strong confidence in his leadership and abilities.

At the squad announcement, chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained Shubman Gill’s selection and his expected role within the team. He hinted at Gill’s strong chances of featuring in the playing XI, underlining his versatility and ability to anchor the innings while also adapting to the team’s needs.

He said, “ We will take the call on the best balance for the team. Once we get to Dubai, will have a bit more clarity. More options available now, Shubman has been in great form anyway last few months. So has Sanju. so two good options, along with Abhishek.”

• Shreyas Iyer misses out Asia Cup Squad

Shreyas Iyer has not featured in T20Is for India since 2023, but his recent IPL form raised expectations of a comeback. His solid performances in the tournament made many believe he had done enough to earn a recall.

He returned strongly during the 2025 Champions Trophy, playing a vital role in India’s middle order and helping the team lift the trophy. Despite clearing his fitness test at the NCA, Iyer was left out of the Asia Cup 2025 squad. The decision surprised fans and experts alike, especially after his consistent contributions earlier in the year.

On Shreyas’s exclusion, Ajit Agarkar said, “ With respect to Shreyas, who can he replace? It's not his fault, but neither ours.”

• Yashasvi Jaiswal isn’t part of Asia Cup Squad

Yashasvi Jaiswal, recognized for his aggressive batting style, missed out on a place in India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad due to stiff competition among openers. Instead, he has been named in the standby list for the tournament. Earlier, Jaiswal was also included in India’s T20 World Cup squad but did not get an opportunity to feature in the playing XI, leaving him eager for future chances.

Ajit Agarkar informed, “ It’s unfortunate. With what Abhishek has done over the last year or so, plus he give us a bowling option is required. One of these guys was always going to miss out.”

• Jitesh Sharma’s Comeback in the Squad

Jitesh Sharma’s consistent performances in the IPL as a wicketkeeper-batter have earned him a spot in the Asia Cup squad. With Rishabh Pant unavailable, Jitesh provides a reliable option behind the stumps while also adding depth to the batting lineup. His aggressive stroke play and ability to handle pressure make him a valuable inclusion, strengthening India’s middle order in crucial situations during the tournament.

• Jasprit Bumrah is back in the Asia Cup Squad

Jasprit Bumrah, a key performer in the T20 World Cup, returns to play in the Asia Cup after a long break. Despite missing the first half of the IPL, he delivered strong performances upon his return. During the England tour, he was rested before the final match, leaving uncertainty about his Asia Cup participation. Now that he is part of the main squad, he is expected to be the mainstay of India’s bowling attack in the UAE.

Agarkar said, “ I don’t think there’s any written plan. Been a nice break after the England series. Physios, team management been in touch. Clearly we want him available for all the big games. There are World Cups, Champions Trophy, big series like England, Australia - you want him available. Because he’s picked up injuries over the last 2-3 years, because of how special and unique it is - it won’t change. Based on how he’s feeling and how we require him, we hope he’s available more often than not.”

• Team India’s Spin Trio: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav & Varun Chakaravarthy

Team India’s spin department for the Asia Cup 2025 features Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakaravarthy. All three impressed during the Champions Trophy in Dubai, showcasing their skills in crucial moments.

Axar Patel has been outstanding with both bat and ball, providing balance as an all-rounder. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy excelled with their spin bowling, offering variation and control. The selectors aimed to include two wrist-spin options in Kuldeep and Varun, with Axar strengthening the team as a reliable all-rounder.

• Team India’s Pace Trio: Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana & Arshdeep Singh

India’s pace attack for the Asia Cup 2025 includes Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, and Arshdeep Singh. Bumrah missed the Champions Trophy due to injury, but his vast experience and skill make him a key asset in any condition. He is expected to lead India’s bowling attack and play a pivotal role in the UAE conditions.

Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh were part of India’s squad in the Champions Trophy. Harshit impressed in Dubai with his exceptional bowling skills, while Arshdeep, though not playing, proved his value with variations and technique. Both are set to strengthen India’s pace department in the tournament.

Team India’s Squad for the Upcoming Asia Cup:

Surya Kumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh

Standby Players: Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal

Ajit Agarkar and the All India Men’s Senior Selection Committee will meet on Tuesday, August 19, to pick the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup starting September 9. Ahead of the meeting, star pacer Jasprit Bumrah has told the selectors he is fit and ready to play a big boost for head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav.

As per The Indian Express, Bumrah has already informed the selectors about his availability, making it almost certain that he will be in the squad. “Bumrah has informed the selectors that he will be available for the Asia Cup selection. The selection committee will talk about it when they meet next week,” a source said.

India will play their first match on September 10 against the UAE. The much-awaited game against Pakistan will take place on September 14 in Dubai. Group A has India, UAE, Pakistan, and Oman, while Group B includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong.

Bumrah’s return comes after he faced criticism from some former cricketers over his workload. During the recent Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, it was already decided he would play only three of the five Tests. He bowled well, taking two five-wicket hauls in the series, but his absence in the Oval Test which India won led to debates, with comparisons to Mohammed Siraj, who played all five games.

🚨 JASPRIT BUMRAH FOR ASIA CUP 🚨

- Bumrah has informed the selectors that he is available for Selection for the Asia Cup. [Devendra Pandey from Express Sports] pic.twitter.com/31ASC4tjck

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 16, 2025

The 31-year-old, currently the No.1 Test bowler, had earlier played all five matches in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, but suffered a back spasm in the final Test in Sydney. That injury ruled him out of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which India went on to win. He also missed the first few games of IPL 2025 for Mumbai Indians.

ALSO READ: "West Delhi Lions Ne Dikhaya Dum, New Delhi Tigers Ka Sapna Toda Chur-Chur!" – Fans Go Wild After West Delhi Lions Seal Thrilling Win Over New Delhi Tigers

Recently, former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar wrote in the Cricket Winner that the team should look at other options if Bumrah can’t play full series. “If he cannot play more than two matches in a row, or sometimes even one, he should not be your main pick. Players who are fit, eager, and ready to play should be chosen ahead of a highly skilled player. It will also motivate such players even more,” Manjrekar said.

Team India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, shared a big update on Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the fourth Test, which starts on July 23 at Old Trafford in Manchester. Before the tour began, chief selector Ajit Agarkar had already said that Bumrah would play only three Tests to manage his workload. Bumrah missed the last match at Edgbaston, which India won.

Big Update on Jasprit Bumrah’s Return for 4th Test from Team India’s Coach

Speaking to reporters, ten Doeschate said, “No, we’ll take that decision in Manchester.” He added, “He’s available for one of the last two Tests. With the series on the line, we’re more likely to play him in Manchester. But we’ll have to look at everything how the weather will be, what gives us the best chance to win, and how both the remaining matches fit together.”

🚨 GOOD NEWS FOR INDIA 🚨

- Jasprit Bumrah is set to play in the 4th Test against England. [Express Sports] pic.twitter.com/vBaulOfdh6

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 17, 2025

The coach also praised England captain Ben Stokes for his strong performance in the Lord’s Test. Stokes bowled 18 overs in the final innings and helped his team win by 22 runs. “It was really impressive to see Ben bowl so many overs on the last day with full effort, and then also contribute with the bat and in the field. But we’re not trying to compare our bowlers with anyone else,” he said.

ALSO READ: Afghanistan Cricket Board releases 2025 Central Contract list of emerging players

Talking about Bumrah, ten Doeschate explained that the star pacer is most effective in short spells. “Jasprit is at his best when he bowls in short bursts that’s what suits him.” He also mentioned that not all bowlers are the same. “For example, Siraj starts to bowl at his best after the 7th or 8th over. Some bowlers are like that. But each one is different. We’ve spoken with Jasprit, and the way we’re managing him is what we believe is best for the team.”

The Indian Cricket Team's highly anticipated test tour of England is almost around the corner. The bumper five-test rubber marks the beginning of the new World Test Championship Cycle (WTC) for 2025-27. The teams will be playing for the 'Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy' as the name of the mega series has been changed from the original 'Pataudi Trophy'. The five matches are slated to be played at Headingley in Leeds, Edgbaston in Birmingham, Lord's in London, Old Trafford in Manchester, and The Oval in London. The first of the marquee clashes commences on Friday, 20th June, and fans are eagerly waiting to witness some exhilarating red ball cricketing action. 

The India Test Team enters this new cycle while being in a transitional phase. With the retirement of stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin, a new era beckons for the young group of players in the UK. It's up to the next generation, surrounded with only a few notable senior players currently, to carry forward the legacy and build further. With Shubman Gill being handed over the skipper duties, and some new additions in the squad, it will be interesting to see their blueprint for a healthy transition ahead. 

India's time on the British shores began with an unofficial test series between the England Lions and India A. The purpose of this series was to provide some match practice to the players entering the test arena from IPL T20 cricket. The two 4-day encounters served as red ball game time for a lot of First-Class (FC) cricketers in the reckoning for the senior team. With a few chances of impressing the coach and national selectors by their cricketing skills on English soil, players like Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Harshit Rana, Anshul Kamboj, Abhimanyu Easwaran, and Sarfaraz Khan took the field against the Lions. Both matches ended in draws, however, there was a bigger picture associated with the outcome of the games. Understanding the conditions and analyzing a few players for some potential spots and backups in the main starting XI against England in Leeds were at the topmost of the agenda.

See Also - ENG vs IND: Michael Vaughan feels Jasprit Bumrah might trouble Joe Root once more

An intra-squad warm-up match was organised in Beckenham to precede the series opener. All the players from the touring party were divided into two teams for one final simulation and to decide on players staying back. In a surprising and unexpected selection move, Harshit Rana was favoured and added to the test squad for the first game as a bowling cover. The rest of the 'India A' players were on their way back home. In a move that has faced backlash since, it is seen as an unfair one on Anshul Kamboj, potentially the most deserving candidate to be included in the squad, but not to be for now. Both of them, originally, were not in the squad, but Harshit, a 23-year-old right-arm Delhi pacer, got the nod over Anshul, a 24-year-old quick from Haryana. The former debuted in Australia in late 2024 and picked up just four wickets from two 'Border-Gavaskar Trophy' tests. However, the decision of his current inclusion hasn’t gone down well with a former Indian cricketer, who reprimanded the team management for their obsession with Rana.

Anshul Kamboj should have been added to the squad. Don’t understand this obsession with Harshit Rana #ENGvIND

— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) June 16, 2025

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Cricket Addicts (@cricketaddictsofficial)

Standing on the right side of numbers in First-Class (FC) cricket, and in the recently played series against the England Lions, Anshul has produced better returns than Harshit. A statistical comparison between the two, in red ball cricket, upholds this fact. 

Keeping the stats under scrutiny and then considering this bizarre decision, speculations have arisen over bias. Fans and former cricketers have spoken out against the team management, selectors, and head coach, Gautam Gambhir, for their favouritism towards Harshit Rana. Anshul Kamboj deserved to stay back and get added to the main squad for the series. It will be interesting to see if Rana can pay back the faith shown in him. Regardless of that, as Shubman Gill takes guard at the dawn of India's next test, unless batters don't play responsibly, much can't be expected from the outcome of the series. India has a great arsenal in their bowling ranks, and they will certainly deliver the goods from the word go. 

Ajit Agarkar Likely to Continue as Chief Selector as Indian Cricket Enters New Phase

Indian cricket is going through big changes. Ravichandran Ashwin has retired from international cricket. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have stepped away from both T20Is and Test matches. Ravindra Jadeja has also retired from T20 cricket. With Shubman Gill now taking over as Test captain, it’s clear a new era has begun.

During this time of transition, the BCCI wants to maintain stability, especially when it comes to team selection. That’s why the board has decided to give chief selector Ajit Agarkar an extension of at least one more year. A BCCI official told CricBlogger, “Agarkar is expected to continue. A final decision will be made after following the proper process.”

Agarkar’s Strong Start as Chief Selector

Since taking over in July 2023, Ajit Agarkar has done a solid job. His experience as a former Indian cricketer, a coach with Delhi Capitals, and a selector for Mumbai has helped him make smart decisions. Under his leadership, India won the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. The team also reached the ODI World Cup final in 2023 and lost the match in the crucial match.

ALSO READ: “He Was Broken.." Wiaan Mulder Reveals Emotional Post-WTC Final Call with Travis Head

Backing Performers and Making Bold Calls

Agarkar has brought clarity to team selection. He has rewarded players who performed well, and he hasn’t been afraid to make bold choices. Even though there were a few disagreements with the team management especially about senior players stepping down his overall decisions have been fair and focused on the future.

For example, he backed Sarfaraz Khan after his strong domestic performances and gave him a chance in the Test team. He also gave Nitish Kumar Reddy his debut in Australia, where he scored a century after wickets down frequently. Karun Nair was brought back after eight years, and Yashasvi Jaiswal also made his Test debut during Agarkar’s time.

With the T20 World Cup 2026 coming up, the BCCI wants Agarkar’s steady hand to guide the selection process. His ability to spot talent and make clear decisions has been a big plus. As Indian cricket moves forward with new faces and fresh energy, Agarkar’s role will be more important than ever.