Pragyan Ojha’s ability as India’s new chief selector will be judged over time, but he appears to have a strong network within the BCCI and among Indian cricketers. This could prove useful as he takes charge of one of the most important roles in Indian cricket.
According to a report in Hindustan Times, BCCI officials asked Ojha to help address the communication gap between head coach Gautam Gambhir and senior batter Virat Kohli. The report said Ojha spoke to Kohli about the matter at some point during his tenure as a selector.
Ojha and Kohli have played 22 matches together for India, which may have helped them build a connection over the years. The BCCI is believed to have used this relationship to help ease the situation between the two.
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Ojha Also Delivered the Message to Rohit Sharma
This is not the first time Ojha has reportedly been given the responsibility of handling a sensitive conversation involving a senior Indian cricketer.
When former chief selector Ajit Agarkar decided that Rohit Sharma would no longer be part of India’s ODI plans after the tour of England, Ojha was asked to communicate the decision to the former captain. According to the report, Ojha delivered the message while both were in the United Kingdom.
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These incidents suggest that the BCCI trusts Ojha to handle difficult conversations with senior players. His ability to maintain relationships could be an important part of his new role.
How Pragyan Ojha Became Chief Selector
Ojha, who played 24 Test matches for India, was promoted to the top position in the selection committee based on seniority. The move came after Ramesh Powar replaced Agarkar as the representative from the West Zone.
Ojha is also believed to share a good relationship with VVS Laxman, the head of the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. Laxman’s role in Indian cricket’s decision-making process has reportedly become more influential, making these connections potentially valuable for the new chief selector.
Replacing Ajit Agarkar Will Not Be Easy
While Ojha has remained largely away from the spotlight as a selector, his new position will bring greater attention and scrutiny. He will be expected to make important decisions about India’s squads, player selections and the team’s future.
Following Agarkar will be a difficult task. During his tenure, India won three ICC trophies (2 T20 World Cups and one Champions Trophy), and he regularly addressed the media to explain the selection committee’s decisions. His public presence and the results achieved under his watch have set a high standard for his successor.
Ojha will now have to establish his own approach while meeting the expectations that come with the role.
Communication Skills Could Be Ojha’s Strength
Being a chief selector requires more than an understanding of the game. The job also requires strong relationship-building, the ability to communicate tough decisions, and the ability to maintain trust with players and team management.
The reported instances involving Kohli and Rohit suggest that Ojha may be comfortable handling such situations. However, his cricketing judgement will be equally important when it comes to selecting squads and making long-term decisions.