Agarkar has advised remaining in Australia, while Kohli and Rohit are expected to be called for important discussions
Agarkar has advised remaining in Australia, while Kohli and Rohit are expected to be called for important discussions
Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors for the BCCI, has been requested by the board to remain in Australia to develop a comprehensive strategy for the future of Indian cricket.
Agarkar is set to remain in Australia for the full duration of the five-Test series. During this time, he will collaborate closely with Gautam Gambhir to ensure that all necessary aspects are addressed.
Following India’s 0-3 defeat against New Zealand, there have been indications that the future of several senior players may be in question. It appears that Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja might have participated in their final Test match together on home ground.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is anticipated to convene with the four cricketers, all of whom are in their late 30s. Given that Rohit, Kohli, and Jadeja have already stepped away from T20 internationals, discussions will likely focus on their plans and the duration of their continued involvement in the sport.
The situation becomes more complex in July, as the third edition of the World Test Championship begins with India’s five-match series against England. By the conclusion of this series, Rohit will be 39 years old and Kohli will be 38. Additionally, the 2027 World Cup in South Africa looms on the horizon.
The performance of senior cricketers has raised some concerns, prompting BCCI officials to contemplate potential adjustments to the Test squad.
“Both Agarkar and Gambhir know that such poor performance in India will trigger widespread criticism, which is justified. Since it’s a long tour, both can sit together and discuss how things can be taken forward after the tour. Both will need at least a year and a half to build a team with a strong backup. That’s where both have to be on the same page about the process. These senior players are still a very important part of the team. But one may expect some tough discussions as well. The seniors will be kept in the loop about the vision of the selectors and coach. They will be asked to share how they plan their careers going into the next World Test Championship cycle and the ODI World Cup being about two years away,” says BCCI.
