As the application deadline of membership to the senior men’s selection committee for the Indian cricket team closed on September 10, 2025. The latest reports by the PTI claim that it signalled a potential reshuffle aimed at bringing in selectors with some playing experience and an understanding of the game. The senior men's selection panel, currently chaired by Ajit Agarkar, plays a pivotal role in shaping India's national team across formats. The committee comprises Agarkar (West Zone), Ajay Ratra (North Zone), Subroto Banerjee (East Zone), S. Sharath (South Zone), and S.S. Das (Central Zone).
In a move that could infuse new energy into Indian cricket's decision-making process, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly
set to induct former international stars Pragyan Ojha and Rudra Pratap Singh (RP Singh) into its senior men's selection committee. Reports claim that sources close to the BCCIindicate that the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) is in the final stages of shortlisting candidates, with Ojha and Singh emerging as frontrunners to replace outgoing members from the South and Central zones, respectively. Applicants must have retired at least five years ago, played a minimum of seven Tests, 10 ODIs, or 20 First-Class matches, and not served on any BCCI cricket committee for more than five cumulative years. Both Ojha and Singh meet these benchmarks comfortably, positioning them as ideal candidates to join the panel that has been instrumental in recent successes like the T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year.
BCCI’s decision reportedly stems from the need to adhere to its rotational policy and eligibility criteria
The BCCI's decision to seek two new members reportedly stems from the need to adhere to its rotational policy and eligibility criteria. Pragyan Ojha, the crafty left-arm spinner who terrorized batsmen during his international stint from 2008 to 2013, is likely to fill the South Zone vacancy left by S. Sharath, whose term has concluded. Ojha, 38, represented India in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs, and 6 T20Is, claiming 144 international wickets with his accurate left-arm orthodox spin. Post-retirement, he has stayed connected to the game through coaching stints, including with the Odisha Ranji team, and as a commentator. RP Singh, the lanky left-arm pacer from Uttar Pradesh, is tipped for the Central Zone spot, potentially succeeding S.S. Das. At 39, Singh played 14 Tests, 58 ODIs, and 10 T20Is between 2005 and 2011, taking 82 international wickets with his swing and seam movement.
RP Singh was also part of India's triumphant 2007 T20 World Cup squad. He also worked as a talent scout for Mumbai Indians and was a member of the BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) from 2020 to 2022, giving him administrative experience that could prove invaluable in the selectors' role. Reports claim that the process now lies with the CAC comprising former players Ashok Malhotra, Jatin Paranjpe, and Sulakshana Naik who will interview shortlisted candidates and recommend names to the BCCI's office-bearers for final approval.
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