The BCCI has completed interviews to identify the fifth member of India’s men’s selection committee, with a final decision expected soon. The appointment could also pave the way for Pragyan Ojha to become the permanent chairman of selectors after serving in the role on an interim basis following Ajit Agarkar’s departure.

Former India cricketers Ramesh Powar and Salil Ankola, both from Mumbai, are among the contenders for the vacant position. Powar has represented India in two Tests and 31 ODIs, while Ankola has played one Test and 20 ODIs.

As per a Hindustan Times report, during the selection process, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising former India players Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjpe, sought the candidates’ opinions on several important matters concerning Indian cricket. One of the key topics was Rohit Sharma’s future in the ODI format, particularly with the 2027 World Cup approaching.

Rohit’s prospects had reportedly become a point of disagreement between Agarkar and the BCCI. The former chief selector was believed to have concerns about whether the veteran batter could remain effective until the next ODI World Cup. Despite India winning three major ICC white-ball titles during his tenure — the 2024 T20 World Cup, the 2025 Champions Trophy and the 2026 T20 World Cup — Agarkar was not offered an extension.

The selectors’ latest decision regarding Yashasvi Jaiswal has also attracted attention. Jaiswal was left out of the squad for the second phase of the New Zealand ODI series, even though Shubman Gill will be unavailable. While the omission gives Jaiswal additional time to prepare for the upcoming Test series, it has also prompted questions about the selection committee’s plans for Rohit as it looks ahead to the 2027 World Cup.

Another subject raised during the interviews was the continued absence of teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from India’s T20I playing XI, despite his talent and regular inclusion in the squad. The CAC wanted to understand how the applicants would approach his selection and assess his readiness for international cricket.

The candidates were also presented with a hypothetical situation involving an injury to Gill and asked to identify potential alternatives for leadership. Their responses were intended to provide insight into how they would handle a sudden change in the team’s leadership structure.

Despite the detailed interview process, the final appointment could depend on the BCCI’s preferred choice for the chairman’s role. Under the board’s constitution, the most experienced Test cricketer among the five selected members is eligible to head the committee.

Ojha, who has played 24 Tests, is currently serving as interim chairman. Among the candidates interviewed, former India opener Wasim Jaffer has the most Test experience, with 31 appearances. However, his chances of securing the position appear uncertain, with the BCCI reportedly favouring continuity within the existing selection setup.

Ojha’s experience working alongside Agarkar for a year could work in his favour, as he is already familiar with the committee’s plans and preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The interview process also included candidates associated with the Baroda Cricket Association. Former India batter Jacob Martin, who has played 10 ODIs, and Connor Williams, who featured in an unofficial Test against South Africa, were among those considered for the vacancy.