India head coach Gautam Gambhir has penned an emotional farewell message for former chief selector Ajit Agarkar after the latter's tenure as chairman of the BCCI Senior Men's Selection Committee came to an end.
Gambhir posted the message on social media on October 7, 2026, praising Agarkar's conviction, team-first approach and contribution to India's recent success. Agarkar's tenure officially ended on October 4 when he didn't seek an extension.
Gambhir's Heartfelt Message for Agarkar
Gambhir called Agarkar "Ajit Bhai" and described working with him as an "absolute honour".
The India head coach highlighted the three ICC trophies won during Agarkar’s tenure and said they were evidence of the former pacer’s dedication to the team ahead of personal desires.
Gambhir's great line was his prediction that "history will be kinder to you," which immediately caught attention since Agarkar was heavily criticized as chief selector.
Agarkar's Three-Year Tenure
Agarkar took over the senior men's selection committee of India in July 2023.
His tenure coincided with one of India's best periods in recent international cricket. India reached the 2023 ODI World Cup final before winning the 2024 T20 World Cup, 2025 Champions Trophy and 2026 T20 World Cup.
Gambhir specifically referred to the three ICC trophies won during the period, as evidence of Agarkar's contribution to the team's success.
An Age of Big Decisions: A Selection Period
Agarkar's committee had several major selection calls involving established stars and emerging players.
The committee had to manage India’s transition with formats and the white-ball side. Some of its decisions stirred up a lot of debate, especially with senior players and the future direction of the team.
Gambhir's message, though, was that Agarkar's contribution to the team should be evaluated in light of the team's success and the difficult decisions that need to be made in order to build a successful team
Dear Ajit Bhai, an absolute honour to work with you. Those 3 ICC trophies are testimony of your conviction: Team first & Team ahead, always.. I must say, History will be kinder to you. Thank you for everything. My heartfelt wishes for your future endeavours !! https://t.co/gYQN0fea8X
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) October 7, 2026
Why Did Agarkar Leave?
Agarkar informed the BCCI after its Annual General Meeting on September 18 that he would not seek an extension.
His tenure concluded on October 4. The BCCI has now started the process of finding his replacement and has invited applications for the vacant position.
Hence, former India spinner Pragyan Ojha has taken interim charge of the selection committee. Shiv Sundar Das, Ajay Ratra and RP Singh are also on the panel.
Gambhir’s Message Adds a Personal Touch
Gambhir and Agarkar worked closely together during Gambhir's tenure as India head coach.
The farewell message therefore went beyond a formal acknowledgement. Gambhir thanked Agarkar for his help and wished him success in his future.
His words also served as a strong defense of Agarkar’s legacy, at a time when the former India pacer’s departure has become a major talking point in Indian cricket.
For Agarkar, the next chapter starts away from the chief selector's chair. But if Gambhir’s message is any indication, he believes Agarkar’s contribution to India’s recent trophy-winning era will be remembered more favourably with time.
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