Pragyan Ojha Named BCCI Chief Selector as Ramesh Powar Replaces Agarkar on Panelਪ੍ਰਗਿਆਨ ਓਝਾ ਬੀਸੀਸੀਆਈ ਦੇ ਮੁੱਖ ਚੋਣਕਾਰ ਬਣੇ, ਅਗਰਕਰ ਦੀ ਥਾਂ ਰਮੇਸ਼ ਪੋਵਾਰ ਪੈਨਲ ਵਿੱਚ

BCCI has named Pragyan Ojha chairman of the men's senior selection committee, and added former India spinner Ramesh Powar to the five-member panel, the board announced on Monday. Powar fills the vacancy left by Ajit Agarkar, whose term as chairman ended on October 4.

Who is on the new panel?

The committee is now Pragyan Ojha (chairman), Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh, Ajay Ratra and Ramesh Powar. Powar was picked from the West Zone by the Cricket Advisory Committee of Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, which interviewed candidates at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai and, according to reports, recommended him unanimously.

Why is Ojha the chairman?

BCCI said the chair goes by seniority, measured by Tests played. Ojha, the South Zone selector who had been leading the panel on an interim basis, played 24 Tests, 18 ODIs and six T20Is for India. Powar played two Tests and 31 ODIs.

What did BCCI say about Agarkar?

The board placed on record its appreciation for Agarkar's "commitment, conviction and contribution". It noted that India won three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games gold medals under him since July 2023. Reports said he did not seek an extension.

Who was passed over?

Former opener Wasim Jaffer was among the candidates considered for the West Zone slot, according to reports. BCCI has not said why Powar was preferred.

Who is the new chairman of India's selectors?

Pragyan Ojha, a former India left-arm spinner, now chairs the men's senior selection committee.

Who replaced Ajit Agarkar on the panel?

Former India offspinner Ramesh Powar was appointed to the West Zone seat vacated by Agarkar.

How is the selection chairman decided?

BCCI said the member who played the most Tests chairs the panel, which made Ojha the chairman.