India Head Coach Gautam Gambhir has shared a deeply meaningful farewell message for outgoing Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar, praising his uncompromising focus on putting the team first throughout a silverware-laden tenure.
Gambhir’s emotional tribute comes after Agarkar concluded his stint as the head of the men’s selection committee, a period marked by unprecedented success on the field alongside escalating administrative tensions off it.
A Golden Run Marked by Three ICC Trophies
Taking charge in July 2023, Agarkar’s leadership over selection matters saw the Indian men’s cricket team enter a golden phase. Under his oversight, India reached the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup before capturing three major titles: the 2024 T20 World Cup, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, and the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Paying tribute to their working relationship, Gambhir took to social media to highlight Agarkar’s contributions:
”Dear Ajit Bhai, an absolute honour to work with you. Those 3 ICC trophies are testimony of your conviction: Team first & Team ahead, always… I must say, History will be kinder to you. Thank you for everything. My heartfelt wishes for your future endeavours !!”
Tensions and Transition in the Selection Panel
Despite the on-field success, Agarkar’s final months were clouded by controversy surrounding transition planning. Debate intensified following the Test retirements of senior stalwarts, alongside reports regarding long-term succession planning in the ODI format ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Following Agarkar’s exit, former India spinner Pragyan Ojha has stepped in as the acting chairman of the selection committee, presiding over squad selections for the upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand and India A fixtures. Ojha, who represented India in 24 Test matches, holds seniority on the current panel alongside Shiv Sundar Das, Ajay Ratra, and RP Singh.
The BCCI has officially opened applications for the vacant West Zone selector role, with the deadline set for October 14.
