India men’s senior cricket team’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s tenure is likely to end with the completion of his contract in September 2026. The reason behind Agarkar’s probable exit from the role is the rumours of opener Rohit Sharma’s retirement surfacing after his dismissal in the second ODI of the series on England tour. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had dismissed reports and said that Rohit is in plans for the ODI World Cup 2027 following the opener’s 138-run knock in the decider. The dramatic episode may lead to Agarkar's exit. Initially, he was expected to stay on till ODI World Cup 2027 but now the ball is in BCCI’s court.
As per a report by Dainik Jagran, India’s legendary Test batter VVS Laxman is the frontrunner to replace Agarkar. Laxman is already the head of Centre of Excellence (CoE), Bengaluru. Also, he has filled in the role of head coach in past few years whenever Gautam Gambhir isn’t available.
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The final decision on Agarkar's exit or Laxman replacing him is yet to be taken. The succession is likely to be discussed at the BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September. It is perceived that senior players Rohit and Virat Kohli will pay heed to what Laxman says.
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How Agarkar can still get an extension?
The report further suggests that Agarkar can still continue as chief selector if India win the Test series on Sri Lanka soil which is scheduled to start on August 15. India are already missing a few key players in Jasprit Bumrah, Washington Sundar who have been ruled out due to their respective injuries. Saransh Jain and Auqib Nabi have received maiden call-ups. Meanwhile, Sai Sudharsan’s participation is subject to fitness clearance as well.
Agarkar excels as white-ball selector but red-ball concerns remain
With Agarkar as chief selector, India made it to the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final, won the T20 World Cup 2024 and 2026 along with ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, the Test team has seen a decline. India have been whitewashed in Test series at home to New Zealand and South Africa. Some of the selection calls have been under the scanner, especially the continued snub of Mohammed Shami. For the upcoming series, domestic performers have been given a chance and they may yet decide Agarkar’s fate or it may turn out to be his last Test selection.