Big Update: Agarkar Absent From Gambhir’s Meeting With Selectors, This Former India Cricketer Set To Become New Chief Selector

Guwahati/New Delhi: Former India fast bowler Ajit Agarkar’s tenure as the chairman of the national selection committee runs until October 4, but even before his term ends, former India spinner Pragyan Ojha is reportedly set to take over the high-profile responsibility.

India’s ODI team is currently playing a three-match series against the West Indies at home, with India leading 1-0. The second ODI will be played in Guwahati today (from 2:00 pm).

On Tuesday, head coach Gautam Gambhir held a meeting with the selection committee in Guwahati, but chief selector Ajit Agarkar was absent. Gambhir held detailed discussions with four selectors regarding the squad for India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. The four selectors included Shiv Sundar Das, Ajay Ratra, R. P. Singh and Pragyan Ojha, who played 24 Tests for India.

According to reliable sources, Pragyan Ojha has been asked to take charge as the acting chief selector. It is also believed that Ojha will officially be handed the position of chief selector from the first week of October. Agarkar had informed the BCCI a few days ago that he did not want to apply for an extension of his tenure.

Former Ahmedabad wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel was also among the contenders for the important position. However, reports suggest that Pragyan Ojha is now likely to be handed the responsibility.

India’s upcoming long tour of New Zealand will run from October 22 to November 27. During the tour, the Indian team will play five T20Is, five ODIs and two Test matches.