Agarkar’s Role Under Examination by BCCI Amidst Test Series Performance

MANCHESTER: Following the Indian team’s subpar showing in the ongoing Test series against England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly scrutinizing chief selector Ajit Agarkar, according to reports from Indian media on Sunday.

Sources indicate that the BCCI is dissatisfied with certain selection choices made during the England tour, specifically the exclusion of crucial players.

Agarkar, currently in England with the squad alongside East Zone selector Shiv Sundar Das, has drawn criticism for some of these decisions.

Notably, Kuldeep Yadav, India’s primary spinner since R Ashwin’s retirement, and top-order batter Abhimanyu Easwaran have remained benched throughout the series.

Instead, the team management opted to debut Anshul Kamboj and recall Washington Sundar, sidelining Kuldeep—a decision that has sparked debate within the board.

Agarkar assumed the role of India’s chief selector in July 2023, and his performance during his second year is now being closely assessed.

Reports suggest that the BCCI will conduct a comprehensive review of the selection committee and support staff following the conclusion of the England series.

Bowling coach Morne Morkel and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, a significant figure in Gautam Gambhir’s support team, are also under evaluation and could potentially be dismissed.

The BCCI is anticipated to make a final determination on these positions after the Asia Cup, scheduled for September 2025.

In other developments, Gambhir’s position is secure, irrespective of the outcome of the ongoing five-match Test series against England. The BCCI has no immediate intentions to replace him.

Gambhir officially took over as coach in 2024, succeeding Rahul Dravid after India’s T20 World Cup victory.

His appointment followed a successful IPL campaign where he guided the Kolkata Knight Riders to the title, a move widely praised.

Under his guidance, India has won only three of their last 11 Tests, raising concerns about his effectiveness in the red-ball format.

Gambhir is expected to continue leading India across all formats, with his contract extending through the end of the 2027 ICC World Cup.