Photo via Hindustan Times

Pragyan Ojha, the steadying force BCCI desires

Pragyan Ojha, the former India spinner who claimed Muttiah Muralitharan’s 800th Test wicket, has been appointed as the new Chief Selector for the Indian men’s cricket team. At 40, Ojha takes over a pivotal role in the five-member selection committee, which now includes Ramesh Powar, Shiv Sundar Das, RP Singh, and Ajay Ratra.

His appointment follows the controversial tenure of Ajit Agarkar, whose direct approach clashed with the BCCI’s leadership during his final years in the role. Ojha, who holds the record for the most Test caps (24) among Indian selectors, is seen as a more diplomatic figure, particularly after handling sensitive communication tasks—such as delivering the selection panel’s stance on Rohit Sharma’s ODI future during the UK series in July.

His experience as a retired selector also helped bridge gaps between head coach Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli during a tense period in 2020, acting as a mediator between the two sides. Ojha’s career as a player was cut short due to bowling action concerns, though he ended with a memorable 10-wicket haul in his final Test against the West Indies in Mumbai in November 2013, a match that also marked Sachin Tendulkar’s last appearance.

With India’s focus shifting toward the 2027 ODI World Cup, Ojha’s committee will prioritize assembling a squad capable of sustained success, though Rohit Sharma’s continued role remains a key question mark as his form and fitness are closely monitored.

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