The BCCI has entered a crucial phase of transition. With the Asia Cup 2025 squad already sparking debates and new leadership taking charge across formats, decisions at the selection table have become more scrutinized than ever.
The extension of Ajit Agarkar's tenure as chairman of selectors until 2026 adds another layer to the discussion - particularly with high-profile omissions like Shreyas Iyer drawing attention.
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Ajit Agarkar gets contract extension until June 2026
The BCCI has recently announced that Agarkar's contract has been renewed - extending his role as chairman of selectors until June 2026.
Since taking charge in June 2023, the former India all-rounder has overseen a period of significant change - highlighted by India's 2024 T20 World Cup win and the 2025 Champions Trophy win.
Agarkar has also presided over leadership transitions with Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav appointed as Test and T20I captains respectively.
His tenure has coincided with the phased exits of greats Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and R Ashwin from certain formats - ensuring that the next generation is gradually taking over.
More: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma out of ICC ODI top 10 batting rankings? ICC confirms glitch
Shreyas Iyer's Asia Cup 2025 snub
What has raised eyebrows is the omission of Shreyas Iyer from India's Asia Cup 2025 squad - not even making the 20-member standby list. This is despite his prolific form in T20 cricket where he scored over 600 runs in IPL 2025 at a strike rate of 175.
Agarkar addressed the decision in the squad announcement, saying: "It's no fault of his. Got to tell me who he can replace? At the moment, will have to wait for his chance."
The statement suggests that Iyer's exclusion stems more from team balance than his individual performances. Still with the Asia Cup doubling as preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, his absence has inevitably fueled speculation about his long-term role in the format.
What does this mean for Shreyas Iyer's T20 World Cup chances?
While Iyer continues to be a consistent performer in both domestic and franchise cricket, his omission at this stage raises concerns about whether he figures in the selectors' T20 World Cup plans. Given his track record, completely sidelining him may be premature.
The next few months - especially India's lead-up to the 2026 World Cup will be critical in determining if the selectors revisit their stance or if Iyer remains on the outside looking in.