So the frontrunners for the Chief Selector job have been revealed after Ajit Agarkar’s departure from the position. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is in the final stages of filling a crucial vacancy on its senior men’s national selection committee after the former chairman’s tenure ended earlier this month. On Thursday, the Ashok Malhotra-led Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) interviewed several high-profile former players, with Wasim Jaffer, Ramesh Powar, Connor Williams and Jacob Martin among the notable names called for discussions, as per a report in the Sportstar.
The vacancy arises from the West Zone, the region previously represented by Agarkar. The former India fast bowler’s contract concluded on 4 October 2026 after he chose not to seek an extension. Agarkar had taken charge in July 2023 and oversaw a highly successful period that included India lifting the T20 World Cup in 2024, the Champions Trophy in 2025 and the T20 World Cup again in 2026, along with Asia Cup titles and Asian Games gold medals.
Wasim Jaffer, Ramesh Powar among leading contenders as BCCI interviews candidates for Chief Selector job
Despite the silverware, differences reportedly emerged with the BCCI hierarchy, particularly over the long-term plans for Rohit Sharma in the ODI format ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Agarkar is understood to have informed the senior opener that he was no longer central to plans, a stance that did not align with the board’s preference for continuity with the experienced campaigner.
Pragyan Ojha serving as interim chairman after Ajit Agarkar’s departure
Following Agarkar’s departure, Pragyan Ojha, the former left-arm spinner, has been serving as interim chairman. The current panel also includes Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh and Ajay Ratra. Under BCCI regulations, the selector with the highest number of Test appearances among the five members is appointed chairman. Ojha has played 24 Tests, placing him ahead of his colleagues. This rule has added significant intrigue to the current process. Meanwhile, applications closed on 14 October.
Who are the other candidates interviewed?
The CAC, comprising Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjpe (with some reports also mentioning Sulakshana Naik), shortlisted candidates and conducted interviews, largely virtually. Alongside Jaffer and Powar, the Baroda duo of Jacob Martin, who played 10 ODIs for India, and Connor Williams were interviewed. Former India pacer Salil Ankola, who previously served as a national selector, was also among those spoken to. Notably, Parthiv Patel, widely tipped as a strong contender earlier, did not apply.
Wasim Jaffer stays on top
Wasim Jaffer brings the strongest Test pedigree among the applicants and is on top for the job as a replacement for Agarkar, as per reports. The Mumbai opener represented India in 31 Tests and two ODIs between 2000 and 2008, scoring nearly 2,000 runs with five centuries, including doubles against the West Indies and Pakistan. Beyond his international career, Jaffer is a domestic legend, holding the record as the highest run-scorer in Ranji Trophy history.
Since retiring, he has built a substantial coaching and mentoring portfolio, working with several state sides, IPL franchises and age-group teams. His 31 Test caps would automatically make him chairman of the selection committee if the CAC recommends his appointment, leapfrogging Ojha.
Ramesh Powar, another top candidate
Ramesh Powar presents a different profile as the hunt continues for the next chief selector. The former off-spinner played two Tests and 31 ODIs. He is better known for his coaching credentials, having served two stints as head coach of the Indian women’s team. Powar has also worked with junior setups and recently assisted Australia’s Under-19 spinners. With only two Tests to his name, his selection would allow Ojha to continue as full-time chairman, an outcome that sources suggest is preferred by the BCCI leadership.
Candidates questioned on Rohit Sharma?
The interviews themselves appear to have focused on current challenges facing Indian cricket. Candidates were reportedly questioned on Rohit Sharma’s ODI future, the continued non-selection of young talent such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the T20I XI despite impressive domestic and age-group form. They were also asked on the potential long-term succession plans for Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill. These questions reflect the transitional phase Indian cricket is entering. While white-ball success has been consistent, the 2027 ODI World Cup looms large, and the side is balancing the retention of experienced players with the integration of a new generation.
Selectors are expected not only to pick squads but also to monitor domestic cricket closely, prepare performance reports for the Apex Council, and engage with the media on selection decisions. Jaffer’s candidature has introduced an interesting dynamic and is expected to surpass others, looking at is stunning resume. His superior Test record and deep knowledge of the domestic circuit make him an attractive option for those who value traditional credentials and batting expertise at the top of the order. Powar’s experience with the women’s team and spin-bowling knowledge could appeal to a board seeking continuity and a lower-profile appointment that preserves Ojha’s leadership.
Eligibility criteria require a minimum of seven Tests, 30 first-class matches, or a combination of 10 ODIs and 20 first-class games, with a five-year gap since retirement. These thresholds ensure that only seasoned professionals enter the panel. Whatever the final decision, the new selector will join a committee operating under heightened scrutiny. Indian cricket’s recent trophy haul has raised expectations, and the next phase, particularly the road to the 2027 ODI World Cup, will demand careful management of form, fitness, age and emerging talent.
BCCI to finalise the candidate in coming days
The BCCI is expected to finalise the appointment in the coming days. Until then, speculation will continue about whether Test experience or perceived board preference will ultimately decide who fills Agarkar’s shoes and whether the chairmanship changes hands in the process. The list of candidates has added a range of experience, and it remains to be seen who takes over the next Chief Selector’s job.
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