On Tuesday, the BCCI announced the appointment of former India wicket-keeper Ajay Ratra as a selector for the men’s cricket team, replacing Salil Ankola in the five-member panel. Ratra will represent the North Zone in the committee led by Ajit Agarkar. This appointment aligns with the convention of having selectors from different zones, following a period when the selection panel had two members from the West Zone, including Ankola.
A BCCI statement noted: “The Cricket Advisory Committee of the BCCI has named Mr. Ajay Ratra as the newest member of the Men’s Selection Committee, replacing Mr. Salil Ankola. Mr. Ratra will join the committee chaired by Mr. Ajit Agarkar.”
Ratra will officially begin his role on Thursday, coinciding with the start of the Duleep Trophy, ahead of the two-Test series against Bangladesh beginning September 19.
Ratra expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It is a huge honour and a challenge. I look forward to contributing to Indian cricket.”
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In his new role, Ratra will collaborate with the existing selectors to identify and nurture emerging cricket talent for the Indian team. His extensive coaching experience includes roles as Head Coach for Assam, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, and he was part of the coaching staff for the Indian team during their ODI series in South Africa in 2023. The BCCI highlighted that Ratra’s insights will be crucial in ensuring that the best talent is identified and developed for international cricket.
