![Agarkar makes request to BCCI for contract extension [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1773900207162_AgarkarmakesrequesttoBCCIforcontractextension.jpg?type=hq)
Agarkar makes request to BCCI for contract extension [Source: AFP]
Last year, before the IPL season, the BCCI extended the Chairman of the Selection committee, Ajit Agarkar’s contract, by a year, rewarding him for India’s stellar performances in the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025. However, if the latest report is to be believed, Agarkar is once again keen on extending his contract until the 2027 World Cup.
Under Agarkar’s selection tenure, Team India captured two T20 World Cups and were also victorious in the Champions Trophy, while only losing a solitary game in three ICC events. As a result, the Mumbaikar is keen on continuing his work with the BCCI.
According to a report by TOI, discussion has already taken place regarding the matter; however, it remains to be seen if the board agrees to extend Ajit Agarkar’s contract, keeping in mind the tough schedule that lies ahead (WTC cycle and the World Cup in 2027).
The report also stated that another cricketer from the West Zone was a strong contender to become the next chief selector, but there has been no concrete update on that.
India's achievements and unfortunate moments under Agarkar
Agarkar was appointed the chief selector in June 2023, and since then, India have witnessed a drastic change in their white-ball cricket approach. The Men in Blue have become a dominant force in T20Is and the 50-overs format, but have struggled to cope up with the rest in red-ball cricket.
His selected players reached the 50-overs World Cup final in 2023, but the team lost to Australia. However, since then, India have gone on to win three back-to-back ICC events, including two T20 World titles. He is also credited for making a smooth transition in the T20Is after the retirement of Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma.
However, under his tenure, India’s Test team has gone downhill, and after witnessing the highs in previous years, the red-ball team has looked clueless as the Indian team suffered two home series whitewashes (against New Zealand and South Africa).
Under Agarkar, India failed to reach the WTC final, a feat they had previously achieved in 2021, and 2023.
Also Read: Ajit Agarkar: Hero Or Villain? The Invisible Hands Behind India’s Trophy Galore
Agarkar's controversial statements on Kohli, Rohit's future
India’s two stalwarts, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, abruptly retired from the Test format in May 2025. While their form was always questionable, the timing of the retirement seemed odd. Also, Agarkar’s statement on Kohli, Rohit’s ODI future seems a bit bizarre as he continues to maintain a non-committal stance on the issue.
While Agarkar has witnessed highs as the Chairman of the selection panel, his statements on two legendary players have come under scrutiny.
“Both Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma are non committal about the 2027 World Cup,” Agarkar said.
“We have made it clear that if guys are free they should be playing domestic cricket,” Agarkar added.
Challenges for Agarkar if he continues as chief selector
If Agarkar’s contract is extended by the BCCI, he will have to endure a tough 1.5 years as India will play in high-profile matches, and the team will be expected to dominate the proceedings.
India will play in an away series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, and with the WTC finale place on the line, anything less than a series win will be considered a failure. Moreover, the team will also take part in the 2027 World Cup, and with India winning three back-to-back ICC events, the BCCI would want the winning streak to continue.
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