INDIA: In a recent development, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has categorically denied being approached for the coveted chief selector’s position by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The denial comes amidst widespread speculations about Sehwag’s potential candidacy for the vacant role.
Following the departure of Chetan Sharma from the post, the BCCI has initiated the search for a new chief selector for the men’s cricket team. To find the most suitable candidate, the apex cricketing body of India has invited applications from former players across the country. Virender Sehwag’s name emerged as one of the top contenders for the position, fueling anticipation among fans and the cricketing fraternity.
However, when questioned by the media regarding the rumors, Sehwag swiftly dismissed them with a succinct “No” response. With this one-word answer, Sehwag put an end to all the speculations surrounding his potential appointment as the next chief selector for Team India.
An anonymous source within the BCCI revealed that Sehwag had previously been approached for the role of India’s head coach during the tenure of the Committee of Administrators (CoA). However, Anil Kumble ultimately secured the position at that time. The source further mentioned that Sehwag’s disinclination towards accepting the chief selector’s role could be attributed to the comparatively lower pay package associated with it.
While the BCCI offers an annual salary of Rs 1 crore to the chief selector, his deputies receive Rs 90 lakh each. The anonymous source argued that the current remuneration might not be financially viable for someone of Sehwag’s stature, thus dissuading him from considering the position.
The source suggested that the BCCI has the capability to address this issue by increasing the chairman of selectors’ salary to a range of Rs 4-5 crore, which would not only attract prominent players but also help resolve conflicts of interest that hinder their involvement in the selection committee.
In the interim, former Indian opener Shiv Sunder Das has assumed the responsibility of heading the selection panel. Das has been entrusted with this interim role since Chetan Sharma’s departure, as the BCCI continues its search for a suitable candidate to fill the chief selector’s position.
Sehwag’s denial puts to rest the speculation surrounding his potential involvement in the Indian cricketing setup at a higher administrative level. As fans eagerly await the BCCI’s decision, the focus now turns to the selection process and the appointment of a new chief selector who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian cricket.
Also Read: BCCI’s Search for Chairman of Selectors Intensifies; Virender Sehwag Emerges as Top Contender
