Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has emerged as one of the names being linked with the role of chairman of the senior men’s selection committee, with reports suggesting he could eventually replace incumbent Ajit Agarkar. While Ashwin’s cricketing knowledge and vast experience make him a strong candidate on paper, the former India star is currently ineligible for the position due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) eligibility rules.
What do the BCCI rules say?
The BCCI has laid down specific criteria for anyone applying to become a national selector. One of the key requirements is that a candidate must have retired from all forms of the game for at least five years before becoming eligible for the role.
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Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket on December 18, 2024, during India’s tour of Australia. As a result, he will complete the mandatory five-year cooling-off period only in December 2029. Until then, he cannot apply for the post of chairman of selectors, irrespective of the speculation surrounding his name.
This means that, under the current rules, Ashwin cannot succeed Ajit Agarkar if the position becomes vacant before the end of 2029.
When could Ashwin become eligible?
If the BCCI retains its existing eligibility criteria, Ashwin will become eligible to apply after completing five years from his retirement. That would place his eligibility from late 2029 onward, making him a realistic candidate only for future appointments after that period.
Unless the BCCI amends its regulations, the former off-spinner will have to wait before he can formally enter the race for one of Indian cricket’s most influential administrative roles.
Ajit Agarkar’s tenure
Ajit Agarkar has served as chairman of selectors since July 2023 and has overseen one of the most significant transition phases in Indian cricket. During his tenure, India witnessed the retirements of several senior players, including Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane across different formats.
Despite the transition, India has enjoyed remarkable success under his watch, winning the 2024 T20 World Cup, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, the 2025 Asia Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup. With India now preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup, Agarkar’s record as chief selector could become even stronger if the team continues its winning run.
For now, Ashwin may remain a popular choice among fans, but BCCI regulations leave no room for exceptions. Regardless of the rumours, the former India spinner will have to wait until he satisfies the board’s five-year eligibility requirement before he can officially be considered for the role of India’s chief selector.
