India head coach Gautam Gambhir has paid a heartfelt tribute to Ajit Agarkar following his departure as Chairman of the Senior Men’s Selection Committee. Agarkar’s tenure officially ended on October 4, 2026, after he informed the BCCI of his decision to step down. Gambhir, who worked closely with Agarkar during his time as India head coach, highlighted the former chief selector’s contribution to a highly successful period for Indian cricket.

In particular, Gambhir pointed to the three ICC trophies India won during Agarkar’s tenure as evidence of his strong conviction and team-first approach. “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,” Gambhir wrote on X.

Agarkar was appointed Chairman of the Senior Men’s Selection Committee on July 4, 2023. He remained in the position for more than three years and oversaw several important selection decisions as India competed across all three formats.

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During his tenure, India won the 2024 T20 World Cup, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2026 T20 World Cup. The three major ICC titles made Agarkar’s tenure one of the most successful periods for India in terms of global tournament results.

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

Gambhir’s tribute specifically focused on the trophies and Agarkar’s commitment to putting the team ahead of individual interests. His message also underlined the professional relationship they developed while working together with the Indian team.

Agarkar informed the BCCI about his decision to leave the position before the board’s Annual General Meeting on September 18, 2026. His tenure officially came to an end on October 4, although neither Agarkar nor the BCCI has publicly revealed the specific reason behind his decision.

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Following his exit, the BCCI began the process of finding his replacement. The board has also advertised the vacant position as it looks to appoint the next Chairman of the Senior Men’s Selection Committee.

As of October 7, no permanent successor has been officially announced. The selection process remains underway, with the new chief selector expected to play an important role in shaping India’s squads and long-term plans across formats.