The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) has likely extended Ajit Agarkar’s tenure as chairman of the senior selection committee until June 2027. His original deal was due to end in June 2026, but the board has opted for continuity with the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind.
Agarkar’s term extended till 2027 amid mixed results
Agarkar’s time in charge has been defined by clear decisions. He has overseen a transition phase, moving on from senior players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma while backing younger options. The approach has been direct roles over reputation, and long-term planning over short-term safety.
The extension also reflects the board’s intent to retain his experience through a crucial phase, with squad building already aligned towards the next 50-over cycle.
White-ball results strengthen position
India’s results in limited-overs cricket under Agarkar have been strong. They reached the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 and followed it up with three major titles: the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
That run has given weight to his selection calls. The squad has shown depth and flexibility, with players rotated based on conditions and roles. The results have been consistent, and the team has looked settled in white-ball formats.
This success is a key reason why the BCCI is keen to keep him in place through to 2027, avoiding disruption before another World Cup push.
Test setbacks raise questions
The red-ball side has not matched that standard. India’s recent Test record has been uneven. A 3-0 home defeat to New Zealand national cricket team in 2024 was followed by a 3-1 loss to Australia national cricket team away. In 2025, they also lost 0-2 at home to South Africa national cricket team.
There was a 2-2 draw in England, but India still missed the World Test Championship final. The transition has been a factor, but results have dipped.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir has also faced criticism for the Test performances. The question remains whether this phase will settle in time, or if red-ball inconsistency will continue to hold the side back despite white-ball success.