Ajit Agarkar's future as chief selector uncertain after BCCI AGM

There is intense speculation in cricket circles over the future of Ajit Agarkar, chief selector of the Indian team. No final decision on Agarkar was taken at the BCCI's Annual General Meeting held on Friday. Even so, his position is seen as under a cloud. The board has handed all related powers to its senior office-bearers, and a major decision is expected to be taken soon.

Around the same time, a social media post by former India wicketkeeper-batsman Parthiv Patel has drawn heavy attention. Patel shared a video in the post, triggering fresh speculation. Cricket fans and analysts are reading different meanings into the post. Patel made no direct mention of anything in it, but appeared to be hinting at something. "Coming soon. I'm in," Parthiv Patel wrote in his post on X. The post was made on September 18, 2026.

The exact intent behind the post is still not clear. However, speculation has begun that Parthiv Patel could become the new chief selector in place of Ajit Agarkar. Former India cricketer Parthiv Patel is believed to be the frontrunner in this race.

Ajit Agarkar was appointed BCCI chief selector in July 2023. His tenure is reported to end in October 2026, meaning his term is now nearing its close. It is at this very time that Parthiv Patel's social media post has triggered fresh discussion. What exactly happens regarding the chief selector's post in the coming days will be important to watch.

Meanwhile, head coach Gautam Gambhir raised a separate point while speaking about team selection. He commented on all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Gambhir said Hardik has not played a single match since the IPL and is currently not fit enough to bowl 10 overs in one-day matches. Gambhir said clearly that the workload in international cricket is high, and he does not want to rush Hardik Pandya into the team and increase his injury risk.