BCCI announced on 19 October 2026 that former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar has been appointed to the Men's Selection Committee. The board also said Pragyan Ojha will chair the committee, based on seniority as the member with the most Tests.
What Was Announced
The Cricket Advisory Committee, made up of Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, ran the selection process for one position on the Men's Selection Committee. It met at the BCCI headquarters to screen and interview applicants and unanimously recommended Powar's appointment, the board said.
Powar played 2 Tests and 31 ODIs for India. BCCI said he has since held major coaching roles, including Head Coach of the India Women's team, Mumbai and Gujarat, as well as Bowling Coach at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. During his time with the India Women's team, he guided them to an Asia Cup title and a Commonwealth Games silver medal.
The board placed on record its appreciation for Ajit Agarkar for his commitment, conviction and contribution during his tenure as Chairman of the Men's Selection Committee. BCCI said that since his appointment in July 2023, Agarkar led the committee through a significant period, with India winning three ICC trophies, two Asia Cup titles and back-to-back Asian Games gold medals.
The Men's Selection Committee is now:
- Pragyan Ojha (Chairperson)
- Shiv Sundar Das
- RP Singh
- Ajay Ratra
- Ramesh Powar
What It Means
The appointment fills the one position on the committee for which BCCI invited applications earlier this month. With Agarkar's tenure as chairman recognised by the board, Ojha takes over as head of the five-man panel that picks India's men's teams. Powar joins Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh and Ajay Ratra as members alongside him.
Source: BCCI press release.