Former India spinner Ramesh Powar has emerged as a leading contender to join the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) senior men's selection committee, with Pragyan Ojha reportedly in line to become its full-time chairman following Ajit Agarkar's departure.

According to a report by Cricbuzz, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) has favoured Powar for the vacant West Zone position after interviewing candidates for the role. However, the BCCI has yet to formally confirm the appointment.

Agarkar's three-year tenure ended on October 4, prompting the board to invite applications for his replacement. The application deadline closed on October 14, while the CAC reportedly conducted interviews on October 15.

Former India opener Wasim Jaffer was among those considered, alongside former Baroda cricketers Connor Williams and Jacob Martin. Mumbai's Salil Ankola was also reportedly in contention. Powar, who initially featured in discussions regarding the junior selection committee, is now tipped to move into the senior setup.

Powar represented India in two Tests and 31 One-Day Internationals. The Mumbai-born spinner has also coached India's senior women's team in two separate stints, bringing both international playing and coaching experience to the selection process. He has also worked in domestic men's cricket.

Ojha, meanwhile, has been overseeing the senior selection committee on an interim basis since Agarkar's exit. Reports indicate that he is expected to retain the leadership role permanently, although an official announcement is awaited. The existing panel also includes Shiv Sundar Das, Ajay Ratra and RP Singh.

VVS Laxman Could Continue Attending Selection Meetings

Another significant development concerns the potential involvement of VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), in selection discussions. His participation is intended to help selectors better understand players' fitness, rehabilitation progress and availability.

Meanwhile, the composition of the junior selection committee remains under discussion, with former India pacer Dodda Ganesh among the names linked to a possible leadership role. The final appointments and committee structure will become clear once the BCCI formally announces its decisions.

Story first published: Sunday, October 18, 2026, 8:00 [IST]

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