Bundela, Lahiri and Doru Among Names in Race for BCCI Junior Selection Panel

A source familiar with the developments said the BCCI is in the final stages of shortlisting candidates to replace the S Sharath-led panel, with an official announcement expected in October.

"Yes, the likes of Bundela, Lahiri and Doru have expressed interest in being the next junior selection panel members. The BCCI is in the final stages of shortlisting candidates to succeed the outgoing S Sharath-led panel and may make an official statement in October," the source said.

The Sharath-led committee took charge in September 2021 and currently includes Ranadeb Bose from the East Zone, Harvinder Singh Sodhi from the North Zone, Pathik Patel from the West Zone and Krishen Mohan from the Central Zone.

Former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar and ex-Uttar Pradesh fast bowler Ashish Winston Zaidi had earlier applied for positions after the BCCI invited applications in August.

Former India pacers Praveen Kumar and Sudeep Tyagi, along with former Mumbai batter Manoj Joglekar, have also submitted applications, while the candidate representing the South Zone has not yet been identified.

Powar had initially emerged as a prominent candidate for the chief selector's position, but the entry of Praveen Kumar could make international experience a key factor in the final decision.

Under the BCCI's selection committee guidelines, the applicant with the most Test appearances is generally appointed chairman of the panel. Powar played two Tests and 31 ODIs for India, while Praveen represented the country in six Tests, 68 ODIs and 16 T20Is.

Powar was recently part of Australia's Under-19 setup as a spin consultant during their ODI series against India in Rajkot.

The outgoing junior selection committee recently picked the India U-23 squad for a match against Tamil Nadu, the CK Nayudu Trophy champions, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The panel has also shortlisted a provisional India U-19 squad for the Asia Cup scheduled to be played later this year.

With the composition of the new selection committee still being finalised, coaches at the BCCI Centre of Excellence have continued to monitor emerging players who could form the next generation of India's Under-19 side.

The national junior men's domestic season will begin with the Vinoo Mankad Trophy on October 8.

Meanwhile, India fast bowler Umesh Yadav is set to represent Punjab as a guest player in the upcoming domestic season after receiving a No Objection Certificate from Vidarbha.

"A new chapter begins. Grateful to start the 2026–27 domestic season with Punjab Cricket Association," Yadav wrote on Instagram on Wednesday.

"Looking forward to stepping into a new dressing room, taking on new challenges and giving my best for Punjab. Thank you to everyone who has been part of my journey so far. Excited for what lies ahead. See you on the field," he added.