Ajit Agarkar, the BCCI chief selector, is under fire for his recent decisions on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in India’s ODI setup. Former England pacer Steve Harmison predicts a turbulent exit for Agarkar as tensions rise over the power struggle with these cricket stars, highlighted by the squad announcement for the Australia series on October 9, 2025.
Background of the Controversy
Agarkar took over as chief selector in July 2023 and has made bold calls since then. His tenure has seen major shifts in the Indian team, including transitions in all formats.
Fans and experts are upset about the uncertainty surrounding Rohit and Kohli’s roles in ODIs. Both players retired from Tests and T20Is earlier this year, leaving ODIs as their only active format. They expressed interest in the 2027 ODI World Cup, but Agarkar’s non-committal stance during the Australia squad reveal has sparked debate.
The decision to name Shubman Gill as ODI captain for the upcoming series against Australia has fueled speculation. This move suggests a push towards younger talent, but it has left many questioning the future of the veteran duo.
Harmison’s Stark Warning
Steve Harmison, a former England fast bowler, shared his views on the situation during a recent talkSPORT Cricket discussion. He believes Agarkar might face a “messy end” if he clashes with influential figures like Rohit and Kohli.
Harmison pointed out that former captains often hold more sway in such disputes. He suggested Agarkar could be using his comments to motivate the seniors, but the risk remains high.
This prediction comes amid growing fan backlash on social media. Many supporters feel the selectors are mishandling the transition, especially after India’s recent ICC successes.
Harmison also noted the differences in how Rohit and Kohli might adapt. He thinks Kohli’s form could make his path easier, while Rohit’s age and recent performances add complexity.
Key Decisions Under Agarkar
Agarkar has overseen several pivotal changes in Indian cricket. His committee dropped experienced players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane to make way for youngsters.
The selector extended his term for another year, earning praise for forward-thinking choices. However, critics argue some moves show favoritism over merit.
Here are some notable decisions during his leadership:
- Appointed Shubman Gill as ODI captain, signaling a youth-focused rebuild.
- Managed retirements of stars like Ravichandran Ashwin, Kohli, and Rohit from Tests.
- Emphasized domestic performances, urging seniors to play in tournaments like Vijay Hazare Trophy.
These steps aim to prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. Yet, the handling of Rohit and Kohli has drawn criticism for lacking clear communication.
Fan and Expert Reactions
Social media is buzzing with opinions on this saga. Fans express frustration over what they see as insensitive treatment of cricket icons.
Former players like Ravichandran Ashwin have called out the BCCI for poor communication. Ashwin questioned why Rohit and Kohli weren’t informed earlier about potential exclusions.
Experts like Dilip Vengsarkar have indirectly suggested dropping the duo from ODIs to focus on the future. This adds to the narrative of a power tussle within the board.
A recent poll on a popular cricket forum showed mixed views:
| Aspect | Support for Agarkar (%) | Support for Rohit/Kohli (%) |
|---|---|---|
| ODI Captaincy Change | 45 | 55 |
| World Cup Inclusion | 30 | 70 |
| Transition Strategy | 60 | 40 |
This table reflects divided opinions, with many backing the stars for their proven track records.
Impact on Indian Cricket’s Future
The controversy highlights broader issues in team management. India’s recent triumphs, like the Champions Trophy win where Kohli scored a century against Pakistan and Rohit shone in the final, show the value of experience.
However, with the ODI World Cup approaching, selectors must balance legacy with renewal. Agarkar’s approach could define the team’s success in upcoming tours.
Rohit’s influence in 50-over cricket has been questioned lately, but his leadership in past ICC events remains unmatched. Kohli, on the other hand, continues to deliver consistent performances.
If the tussle escalates, it might affect team morale ahead of key series. The Australia tour starting October 19, 2025, will be a crucial test.
What Lies Ahead for Agarkar
Predictions of a messy end for Agarkar stem from past patterns in Indian cricket. Selectors who challenge star players often face short tenures.
Harmison’s comments underline the challenge: Agarkar, a former all-rounder, versus two of India’s greatest batsmen. The outcome depends on results in the coming months.
As this story develops, cricket followers are watching closely. Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread the word if you found this analysis helpful.
