BCCI permits Mumbai-born cricketers despite representing Goa and Pondicherry in domestic cricket
Mumbai
Arjun Tendulkar and Siddhant Addhatrao have been cleared by the BCCI to participate in the upcoming T20 Mumbai League despite representing Goa and Pondicherry respectively in domestic cricket during the recently concluded season.
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) confirmed that both players would be included in the auction pool for Season 4 of the T20 Mumbai League after receiving approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
“This is to inform you that the Board of Control for Cricket in India has approved the participation of Mr. Arjun Tendulkar and Mr. Siddhant Addhatrao in the T20 Mumbai League – Season 4,” stated an MCA communication sent to franchise operators.
Addhatrao, a wicketkeeper-batter who made his Ranji Trophy debut during the 2024-25 season, represented Pondicherry last year, while Tendulkar has been playing domestic cricket for Goa over the past few seasons.
As per existing MCA regulations, local players returning after appearing as guest players for another state association are generally required to undergo a one-year cooling-off period before becoming eligible for Mumbai competitions. However, MCA secretary Unmesh Khanvilkar clarified that the rule would not apply in the present case.
“Since they have not participated in the T20 league organised by the association of their respective teams, the BCCI has allowed them to participate in the T20 Mumbai League,” Khanvilkar said.
Addhatrao confirmed that he had already submitted the required No-Objection Certificate and expressed his excitement about returning to Mumbai cricket.
“I just want to enjoy Mumbai cricket, be it first-class, T20 Mumbai or maidan cricket,” he said.
Meanwhile, Goa Cricket Association secretary Tulshidas Shetye stated that Tendulkar was yet to apply for a No-Objection Certificate as the association had not finalised its guest players for the next season.
Tendulkar, son of legendary India batter Sachin Tendulkar, is currently part of the Lucknow Super Giants squad in IPL 2026.
According to BCCI guidelines, players are permitted to participate in only one officially recognised domestic T20 league in a 12-month period, excluding the IPL, to prevent excessive workload and maintain focus on domestic cricket commitments.