Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Capitals have posted a farewell message on Instagram for Ajit Agarkar, who was an Assistant Coach. Capitals, who finished bottom last season in the IPL, also released Shane Watson from their coaching staff.
The former India pacer's exit from Delhi Capitals comes at an intriguing time as he is considered the frontrunner to take up the post of Chief Selector in the BCCI Selection Committee.
You’ll always have a place to call home here 💙
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) June 29, 2023
Thank You, Ajit and Watto, for your contributions. All the very best for your future endeavours 🙌#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/n25thJeB5B
The news has certainly set the tongues wagging, with the rumour mill linking his exit with his impending appointment as India's Chief Selector.
Bet on cricket matches from India
Ajit Agarkar was apparently on a higher pay package as a deputy coach at DC and as a commentator.
It is rumored that the BCCI will review the payment structures of the panelists in the selection committee, with the Chief Selector set to earn an annual remuneration of above 1 Crore INR.
Ajit Agarkar up against Dilip Vengsarkar and Ravi Shastri for the post of Chief Selector
It is rumored that the other two candidates in the running for the post of Chief Selector are former India batsman Dilip Vengsarkar and Former India Head Coach and all-rounder Ravi Shastri. However, it remains unclear whether they have applied for the post.
MORE: Who will be India's next Chief Selector?
Dilip Vengsarkar has only one year left to serve as the Chief Selector. As per the rules, any candidate can serve as a Chief Selector for four years. Vengsarkar held the position earlier, from September 2005 to 2008.
Agarkar fits into the selection criteria set by the BCCI. The 45-year-old played 191 ODIs, 26 Tests, and 4 T20Is for India. He retired ten years ago in 2013.
The BCCI has relaxed some of its rules for becoming a member of the selection committee. The age cap of 60 years is no more. The conventional system of honoring all five zones (North-East included) ceases to exist. From now, there can be two selectors from West Zone. Thus, Ajit Agarkar fits into the criteria.
Ajit Agarkar applies for the post of Chief Selector
The former Delhi coach has now submitted his application for the post of Chief Selector to the BCCI confirmed a Mumbai Cricket Association official to Cricbuzz. The applications will close on Friday, with the new Chief Selector to be announced by next week in all likelihood.
