Ajay Ratra Joins BCCI as New Selector for Men's Cricket Team

The BCCI has appointed Ajay Ratra as a new selector for the men's cricket team, replacing Salil Ankola. Ratra will represent the North Zone in the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel. He brings experience as a former player and coach, and his appointment precedes key series against Bangladesh.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Tuesday 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.

Traditionally, all five selectors represent different zones, and Ratra will cover the North Zone in the committee led by Ajit Agarkar. The panel had two West Zone selectors after Agarkar's selection, prompting the change.

This development arrives ahead of the two-Test series against Bangladesh on September 19. Ratra, who starts Thursday with the Duleep Trophy, expressed his excitement and readiness to contribute to Indian cricket. The BCCI had sought applications for the position in January and shortlisted four candidates, with Ratra emerging as the most deserving candidate, according to a BCCI source.

(With inputs from agencies.)