Mohammed Shami, Sarfaraz Khan, Abhimanyu Easwaran: Ajit Agarkar's Selection Calls That Raised Eyebrows
Ajit Agarkar became the BCCI chief selector in July 2023. Since then, India have reached the final of the ODI World Cup, won two T20 World Cups, and also won the Asia Cup and the Champions Trophy
- Ajit Agarkar became BCCI chief selector in July 2023 and led India to major white-ball titles
- India won two T20 World Cups, Asia Cup, and Champions Trophy under Agarkar's tenure
- India faced significant defeats in Test cricket during Agarkar's tenure as chief selector
Ajit Agarkar became the BCCI chief selector in July 2023. Since then, India have reached the final of the ODI World Cup, won two T20 World Cups, and also won the Asia Cup and the Champions Trophy. In white-ball cricket, India have been dominant, while the same cannot be said about Tests. India have experienced some of their worst defeats in the format during his tenure. Some calls, such as the omissions of Mohammed Shami and Sarfaraz Khan, have also come under scrutiny. Agarkar's contract was set to end in June 2026, but he was given a three-month extension by the board. Whether the former all-rounder receives another extension remains to be seen.
Former India star Wasim Jaffer was asked to describe Agarkar's tenure as BCCI chief selector. He delved into the topic in detail and explained why it should be considered a successful one.
"I think if you talk about winning, then his tenure has been successful. You are judged by your results, so I believe the trophies we have won speak for themselves. However, how some players have been handled and how some selections have taken place are debatable. There is no doubt about that. There is Mohammed Shami, then Sarfaraz Khan, and we keep mentioning Abhimanyu Easwaran's name. Now Auqib Nabi, who wasn't selected earlier, has been selected as a replacement. These are all things that I feel can be discussed in a negative way. Why are these selections not happening, and why are players not getting clarity?" Jaffer stated in a video.
"Otherwise, the way the team has played, especially in white-ball cricket, we have dominated. If we leave out the 2023 World Cup final, India have won the Asia Cup, the Champions Trophy, and then two T20 World Cups back-to-back. So, India have dominated white-ball cricket. We have that kind of talent, and we have dominated white-ball cricket. So, in terms of performances, you would count this stint as a successful one," said Jaffer in a video posted on his YouTube channel.
Jaffer said that Bumrah's presence has been a crucial factor in India's domination of white-ball cricket since 2023.
"Apart from that, the presence of Jasprit Bumrah gives you an extra edge. We have seen this during the England and Ireland tours. When he is not playing, our bowling looks lacklustre and ordinary. When he plays, our opposition is under pressure. In terms of performance, his stint has been a successful one. I believe all selectors take decisions collectively, although the chairman selector's vote is important. If the chairman puts his foot down, then there is further discussion. Otherwise, everybody is on the same page regarding the selection of a particular player," he said
India Cricket Team
Mohammad Shami