The BCCI chief selector plays an important role in deciding India’s senior men’s cricket teams. The selection committee picks players for Tests, ODIs and T20Is and also plans for India’s future squads.
With Ajit Agarkar’s tenure coming to an end, there is renewed interest in how the BCCI chooses the next chief selector.
How Is the BCCI Chief Selector Chosen?
The BCCI follows a formal process to appoint members of the national selection committee. When a vacancy comes up, the board invites applications from eligible former cricketers. The applications are checked and shortlisted candidates may be called for interviews. The Cricket Advisory Committee can also play a role in recommending candidates. In 2023, the committee interviewed applicants before recommending Ajit Agarkar for the senior men’s selection committee. He was later appointed chairman of the committee.
BCCI Chief Selector Eligibility
A candidate for the senior men’s selection committee must meet the required playing experience and other conditions.
| Eligibility | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Test cricket | At least 7 Test matches |
| First-Class cricket | At least 30 matches |
| ODI route | 10 ODIs and 20 First-Class matches |
| Retirement | Must have retired at least 5 years earlier |
| BCCI Cricket Committee | Must not have served for a total of 5 years |
What Does the Chief Selector Do?
The major responsibilities include:
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Selecting India’s Test, ODI and T20I teams
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Identifying talented players from domestic cricket
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Monitoring the performances of current and emerging players
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Building India’s future squads
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Discussing team combinations with other selectors
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Selecting captains when required
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Attending selection and team-related meetings
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Giving updates about selection decisions when required
Does the Chief Selector Choose the Team Alone?
No. The chief selector does not select the team alone. The senior men’s selection committee includes several selectors. They discuss player performances, team requirements and possible combinations before finalising squads. The chairman leads the committee and has an important role in the selection process.
BCCI Chief Selector Salary
The BCCI does not publicly mention a fixed salary for the chief selector in its recruitment information. However, media reports have previously put the annual remuneration of the chairman of the senior men’s selection committee at around ₹3 crore. The amount can change depending on the BCCI’s current rules and contract.
| Position | Reported Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Chief Selector | Around ₹3 crore |
| Other Selectors | Lower than the chairman |
What Happens When the Chief Selector’s Term Ends?
When the chief selector’s tenure ends, the BCCI can decide whether to extend the tenure or appoint a new person. If a replacement is needed, the board can invite applications from eligible former cricketers. The candidates are then screened and shortlisted, and interviews may be conducted before the final appointment.
Why Is the Chief Selector Important?
The chief selector has an important role in India’s cricket planning. Selection decisions can affect the team for international series and major tournaments. The selector also has to look at both current performance and future requirements. Young players need to be identified while experienced players have to be assessed based on their current form and team needs.