BCCI Names Pragyan Ojha New Men's Selection Committee Chairman; Ramesh Powar Succeeds Ajit Agarkar in Panel
Breaking: Pragyan Ojha has been officially appointed as the new Chairman of the Team India Senior Men's Selection Committee. Former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar also joins the five-member panel, replacing Ajit Agarkar.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) today, October 19, 2026, confirmed significant changes to its Men's Senior Selection Committee, naming former India left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha as the new Chairman and inducting Ramesh Powar into the five-member panel. These key appointments follow the conclusion of Ajit Agarkar's tenure as the chief selector earlier this month. Ravindra Jadeja Cheekily Inquires About Team India's Chief Selector Role After Ajit Agarkar's Exit.
Pragyan Ojha Named Chief Selector
The New Leadership
Pragyan Ojha, who had been serving as the interim head of the selection committee since Ajit Agarkar's departure, has now been elevated to the permanent role of Chairman. The BCCI's decision is based on seniority, with Ojha's extensive Test match experience, having played 24 Tests for India, making him the most experienced member among the current selectors.
Powar Joins the Ranks
Ramesh Powar, the former India off-spinner, has been appointed to the selection committee, filling the vacancy created by Agarkar's exit. Powar represented India in 2 Tests and 31 One Day Internationals during his playing career and brings significant coaching experience, including two stints as the head coach of the India Women's team. His appointment comes after a rigorous interview process conducted by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC). Raipur Weather Forecast and Rain Chances for India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 3rd T20I 2026.
The Complete Panel
The revamped Men's Senior Selection Committee now comprises a blend of experience and diverse perspectives. The five-member panel is as follows:
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Chairman | Pragyan Ojha |
| Member | Shiv Sundar Das |
| Member | RP Singh |
| Member | Ajay Ratra |
| Member | Ramesh Powar |
Ajit Agarkar's Tenure Concludes
Ajit Agarkar's successful tenure as Chairman of the Men's Selection Committee officially concluded on October 4, 2026. The BCCI expressed its gratitude to Agarkar for his dedicated service, strong leadership, and invaluable contributions to Indian cricket. During his time at the helm, which began in July 2023, India notably secured three ICC trophies (T20 World Cup 2024, Champions Trophy 2025, T20 World Cup 2026), two Asia Cup titles (2023, 2025), and back-to-back Asian Games gold medals (2022 held in 2023, 2026).
These strategic appointments are expected to provide renewed impetus to India's selection policies, ensuring the continued development of a strong talent pool across all formats as the national team looks ahead to future challenges and major tournaments.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 19, 2026 04:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).