Two Former India Players With Close To 100 Tests Decline BCCI Chief Selector Role: Report
In a blow to the BCCI, two former Indian cricketers, each with nearly 100 Test caps, have reportedly declined offers to join the men's selection committee. This comes amidst the search for a new chief selector following Ajit Agarkar's departure on October 4, 2026, and after Parthiv Patel also chose not to apply.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is grappling with a significant challenge in reconstituting its Men's Selection Committee, as two highly respected former Indian cricketers, both with illustrious careers spanning close to 100 Test matches, have reportedly turned down offers to join the prestigious panel. The development, coming on the heels of former chief selector Ajit Agarkar's departure, underscores the difficulties the board is facing in attracting top talent to the administrative role. Pragyan Ojha Set to Replace Ajit Agarkar As BCCI Chief Selector After Parthiv Patel Opts Out of Race: Reports.
As per Times of India, sources close to the BCCI revealed on Thursday that the board had extended offers to these two unnamed stalwarts, hoping to leverage their extensive international experience. However, both players opted not to accept the opportunity, prompting further speculation about the factors deterring high-profile cricketers from taking up selector positions.
The Search for a Successor
The vacancy for a new chief selector arose after Ajit Agarkar's tenure officially concluded on October 4, 2026. Agarkar, who took over the reins in July 2023, informed the board prior to its Annual General Meeting on September 18, 2026, that he would not seek an extension to his contract.
Following Agarkar's exit, the BCCI swiftly initiated the process to fill the vacant position, inviting applications for one role on the Men's Selection Committee. The application deadline for this position was October 14, 2026.
Interim Leadership and Missed Opportunities
Currently, former India left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha, who has played 24 Tests, is serving as the interim chairman of the selection committee. The existing panel also includes Shiv Sundar Das, Ajay Ratra, and RP Singh.
Adding to the board's woes, former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel, who was widely considered a strong candidate and tipped by many to replace Agarkar, surprisingly chose not to apply for the position. His decision has further complicated the BCCI's efforts to find a suitable and experienced individual for the top selection post. BCCI Invites Applications for Men’s National Selector After Ajit Agarkar’s Tenure Ends.
Remuneration and Future Outlook
Speculation suggests that the remuneration offered for the selection committee roles might not be competitive enough to entice former cricketers who often command lucrative contracts in commentary, coaching, or other media engagements. The BCCI, seemingly aware of this challenge, has demonstrated a willingness to increase the pay package, as indicated by the increased budget for selection committees. For the 2026-27 financial year, the board has earmarked ₹19.35 crore for selection committee expenses, marking an increase of ₹2 crore from the previous year's revised budget of ₹17.45 crore.
This recent wave of rejections and non-applications poses a significant challenge for the BCCI, especially with the ODI World Cup less than a year away. The board is under pressure to find capable individuals who can bring fresh vision and stability to the critical process of national team selection.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 15, 2026 11:35 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
