This move has sparked speculation that Agarkar is aiming for the position of chief selector for the senior men’s national team. The Delhi Capitals’ social media post expressing gratitude to Agarkar for his contributions further fuels these rumors.
If Agarkar indeed throws his hat into the ring for the top job, it may lead to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revisiting the remuneration structure. Currently, the chairman of selectors is offered an annual package of Rs 1 crore, with Rs 90 lakh for other panel members.
Agarkar, who has experience as an assistant coach and commentator, earns significantly more than the existing chief selector’s salary. Consequently, the BCCI may have to review and increase the pay structure to attract someone of Agarkar’s stature.
Delhi Capitals tweeted, “You will always have a place to call home here. Thank You, Ajit and Watto, for your contributions. All the very best for your future endeavors.” This message further strengthens the assumption that Agarkar is eyeing the vacant chief selector position.
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It is worth noting that Agarkar had previously interviewed for the selector’s post in 2021 when Chetan Sharma from the North Zone became the head of the panel.
Despite Agarkar’s impressive credentials, including 191 ODIs, 26 Tests, and four T20s, he was passed over in favor of his former Mumbai teammate Abey Kuruvilla, who had only one year remaining in his tenure as the junior selection committee chairman.
Reportedly, the Mumbai Cricket Association had reservations about Agarkar’s candidature during the previous regime in 2021, which led to the BCCI not considering his case.
Agarkar’s inclusion would have also prevented Chetan Sharma from becoming the chairman. However, the current MCA regime, which already has Salil Ankola in the roster, may not have an issue with Agarkar’s appointment.
Two other notable names under consideration for the chief selector role are Dilip Vengsarkar and Ravi Shastri. However, it remains unconfirmed whether they have applied for the job.
If Vengsarkar does apply, his tenure would only last one year, as he was chairman of selectors from September 2005 to 2008. According to the rules, a selector can serve on the panel for a maximum of four years.
In a departure from tradition, the BCCI has relaxed the age cap of 60 years and eliminated the practice of honoring the zonal system for representation, with the exception of the North East.
With Agarkar’s resignation from his IPL role and his expressed interest in the chief selector position, the BCCI will likely review the remuneration package and evaluate the potential candidates to fill this crucial role. T
he decision will have a significant impact on the future of Indian cricket, and fans eagerly await the BCCI’s announcement of the new chief selector.