Mumbai, September 18 (Daily Kiran) : The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to make a decision regarding Ajit Agarkar’s future as the chief selector for the senior men’s team within the next 15 days. This announcement came from BCCI Secretary Devjeet Saikia following the 95th Annual General Meeting held on September 18 in Mumbai.
Ajit Agarkar, who took on the role of chief selector in July 2023, has overseen significant achievements for the Indian cricket team. Under his leadership, India reached the finals of the ODI World Cup 2023 and secured titles at the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025. Earlier this year, the team successfully defended the T20 World Cup trophy on home soil.
Agarkar’s term is set to conclude on October 4, and the BCCI faces a crucial decision as preparations intensify for the Men’s ODI World Cup 2027. Saikia addressed the media, stating, “There was no discussion about any individual today. We still have 15 days. We will make a decision and inform you at the right time.”
In a significant administrative move, the BCCI has approved a substantial increase in fees for domestic umpires and match referees. This marks the first salary adjustment since the 2017-18 season. Saikia noted, “There has been no change in the umpires’ fees since 2017-18. We have reorganized their categories from four to four—A, B, C, and D—resulting in a considerable rise in their daily fees.”
To enhance accountability among match officials, the BCCI has introduced a merit-based promotion and demotion system. Saikia explained, “Ten umpires will be promoted to the next level based on performance. Conversely, umpires who do not meet satisfactory performance levels may be demoted. Ten umpires will move up, and ten will move down.”
Saikia also dismissed rumors regarding a venue change for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test scheduled in Ranchi from February 19 to 23, 2027. He stated, “There are still six months left. We will make a decision in a few days. We have not received any request to change the venue for the Ranchi Test.”
He further revealed that a new junior men’s selection committee will be formed soon after interviews conducted by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC). Saikia mentioned, “We have received a large number of applications for the junior selection committee, which we will present to our cricket committee. This committee will be responsible for selecting the selectors. We aim to complete this process within the next 10 to 15 days.”
Regarding the proposed Central Sports Act, Saikia clarified that the BCCI will await an official notification from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports before making any structural changes. He stated, “Our stance on the Sports Act is clear. Much remains to be done by the relevant authority. Once the processes are complete and the BCCI falls under the Sports Act, a specific notification will be required to designate it as a recognized sport. Until then, we need to refrain from any action. We will act promptly once that notification arrives, adhering to the new rules.”
Touching on ongoing proceedings in the Supreme Court, the BCCI Secretary remarked, “As of today, there is nothing to report that was mentioned on that day in the Supreme Court. We will provide clarification on October 27 when the case is next listed.”
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