Becoming a selector is the biggest challenge of my career: Ajit Agarkar

New Delhi, October 17 (IANS). Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector of the Indian cricket team, has considered his role more challenging than most other roles in his career. Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Ajit Agarkar said that his role as a player has been the most satisfying so far. The biggest challenge he has faced is as a selector. On comparing players, commentators and selectors, Agarkar said: “I would probably go with the easier option first. As a commentator, you work hard, spend hours on the field. As long as you can say the right words, there is no disrespect towards you. As a commentator, your job is done. You can go home.” Agarkar said: “Playing gives you the greatest satisfaction. Every time you step on the field, you know that your job is on the line, your place is on the line. One thing for you as a player is that the ball or the bat is in your hand. There is very little difference between winning and losing, that is what is at stake. Often, if you play well or make a mistake, it decides as a player.” The former all-rounder said, “As a selector, once you pick a squad of 15 players, there is nothing else in your hands. It’s challenging because we have a lot of experienced cricketers right now. A lot of things are out of your hands. It’s a hectic and high-pressure job. It’s a big responsibility. Once you become a player, you know you can influence a good player. or bad way. You can’t please everyone. So, as a selector you try to give your best performance.” “It’s a good problem to have so many players pick. It increases the level of competition and keeps the performance level high. The game is so popular in India that some people will even criticize your decisions. The number of fans has increased manifold over the last few years,” he said. The 47-year-old Ajit Agarkar played 26 Tests, 191 ODIs and 4 T20s between 1998 and 2007. He has 571 runs and 58 wickets in Tests with the help of 1 century, 1,269 runs and 288 wickets with the help of 3 half cents and 20 wickets. After retirement, Agarkar also remained active in the field of coaching and commentary. On 4 July 2023, Agarkar became the chief selector of the Indian cricket team. –IANS SUIT