In a momentous day for Odisha cricket enthusiasts, former left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha, a son of the soil, has been appointed as a selector for India’s senior men’s cricket team.
This prestigious role in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selection committee marks a new chapter for the 39-year-old, who retired from international cricket in 2018 after a stellar career that saw him claim 113 wickets in 24 Tests and over 150 in ODIs.
Ojha’s inclusion alongside fellow Odia cricketer Shiv Sundar Das – the former opener from Jajpur – underscores a rare and proud moment for the state. For the first time in recent memory, Odisha boasts two representatives in the BCCI’s high-stakes selection panel, chaired by Ajit Agarkar.
This duo brings a fresh, regional perspective to a committee that traditionally draws from cricket’s heartlands like Mumbai and Delhi, potentially amplifying voices from the East in shaping India’s World Cup dreams and beyond.
“Cricket has been my life, and giving back to the game that gave me everything is an honour,” Ojha said in a brief statement post-announcement. Ojha rose through the ranks at the Cuttack-based Odisha Cricket Association, honing his craft on the dusty pitches of Barabati Stadium. His domestic exploits with Hyderabad and international stints, including key roles in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph, made him a household name. Post-retirement, Ojha has been a familiar face in commentary boxes, offering sharp insights on spin bowling – skills that selectors believe will translate seamlessly into talent scouting.
Joining Ojha and Das is RP Singh, the fiery left-armer from the 2007 T20 World Cup-winning squad, who took 12 wickets in just six matches during that historic campaign. The trio’s blend of experience – from Test grinders to white-ball specialists – signals BCCI’s intent to infuse the panel with modern, multifaceted expertise.
For Odisha fans, this isn’t just about cricket governance; it’s a validation of the state’s growing stature in the sport and Ojha’s eagle eye could fast-track more Odia hopefuls. As India gears up for the 2027 ODI World Cup, all eyes will be on how this influences the squad.
