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India head coach Gautam Gambhir penned a heartfelt note for former teammate Ajit Agarkar after he stepped down as the BCCI chief selector. Agarkar was appointed to the role in July 2023 and oversaw a highly successful period for Indian cricket, during which the team won two T20 World Cups, the ICC Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup.
Gambhir, who worked alongside Agarkar during part of his tenure, took to social media to acknowledge his former teammate’s contribution. The India head coach credited Agarkar’s conviction and team-first approach while wishing him well for his future.
Gautam Gambhir thanks Ajit Agarkar for his contribution
Gambhir shared an emotional message for Agarkar following his decision to leave the selection committee. He pointed to the three ICC trophies won during their time working together and said the former India pacer’s contribution would be viewed positively with time.
“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!!”
Agarkar’s tenure began in July 2023, and he was given an extension in June before deciding not to seek another extension. His exit comes after a period in which Indian cricket enjoyed considerable success across major ICC tournaments.
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 !! pic.twitter.com/gYQN0fea8X
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) October 7, 2026
BCCI invites applications for chief selector role
The BCCI has now started the process of finding Agarkar’s replacement after his tenure ended on October 4. The board invited applications for the vacant position on Tuesday, with candidates having until October 14 to submit their applications.Former India spinner Pragyan Ojha is currently serving as the interim chairman of selectors, alongside Shiv Sundar Das, Ajay Ratra and RP Singh on the selection panel. Ojha played 24 Tests for India and could be considered for the permanent position based on seniority.
The BCCI’s eligibility requirements remain unchanged. Applicants must have played at least seven Tests, 30 first-class matches, or 10 ODIs and 20 first-class matches, and must also have retired from professional cricket at least five years ago. Parthiv Patel has also been mentioned as a potential candidate and, having played 25 Tests, would have greater Test-match seniority than Ojha if he joins the selection panel.
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