Photo via Hindustan Times

Three ICC trophies, tough calls and a commitment to fairness: Ajit Agarkar goes out with reputation enhanced

Ajit Agarkar is set to conclude his time as the chairman of selectors for the Indian men's cricket team, having notified the BCCI of his choice not to seek an extension when his term finishes next month. Taking charge in July 2023 to succeed Chetan Sharma following an eleven-year dry spell in global events, Agarkar oversaw a remarkably fruitful run featuring three major pieces of silverware.

Under his watch, the national side lifted the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup across the United States and Caribbean, captured the 2025 Champions Trophy co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, and retained their T20 crown this March with a decisive win over New Zealand in Ahmedabad, while also reaching the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Throughout his tenure, Agarkar prioritized event-by-event continuity, initially installing Suryakumar Yadav as T20 skipper once retired from the setup after the 2024 triumph. However, when Yadav's batting form dipped significantly, Agarkar showed a ruthless streak by dropping the title-winning captain and turning to despite his prolonged absence from the format.