It has been reported that Ajit Agarkar’s chief selector post is under threat after Rohit Sharma saga during the ODI series against England. VVS Laxman, who is currently the director at the National Cricket Academy, is likely to take over the role from the former Indian pacer.
Rohit has been put under pressure by the selectors and the team management and it was recently reported that he could play his last ODI against England at Lord’s. However, Rohit went on to score a magnum opus knock of 138 runs off 110 balls to silence his critics.
Furthermore, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also gave a statement before the third ODI regarding Rohit’s future. However, it is reported by Dainik Jagran that Saikia gave a statement without consulting Ajit Agarkar.
The BCCI was considering to extent Ajit Agarkar’s contract till 2027 but the recent events has forced the officials to rethink their final decision.
“It was believed that his tenure would be extended until the 2027 ODI World Cup, but the reports emerging before the second ODI on England’s recent tour about Rohit’s career ending, followed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia’s statement—made without consulting the chief selector—that Rohit would play as long as he remains part of the team plan, and then the former captain’s century, have only complicated the situation instead of improving it,” the report states.
“Initially, there were considerations to extend his tenure until June 2027, but now some BCCI officials are contemplating appointing VVS Laxman, the head of cricket at the Centre of Excellence, as the chief selector,” the report continues.
It has been further understood that BCCI is currently in two minds and the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka could be vital to Agarkar’s future.
“Agarkar’s card hasn’t been fully cut yet. However, questions have been raised about several selection decisions in recent months. The BCCI is still weighing whether to give him a one-year extension keeping the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind or to bring in Laxman. Everything hinges on the outcome of the two-Test series in Sri Lanka. If India wins the series, Agarkar’s tenure could be extended further,” the report mentions.
The first Test match between India and Sri Lanka will be played at Galle from August 15.
