In a notable development, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) President Ajinkya Naik has revealed that senior India cricketer Rohit Sharma played a pivotal role in convincing Yashasvi Jaiswal to stay loyal to Mumbai, halting his proposed move to Goa for the upcoming domestic season.
Earlier in April, Jaiswal had formally reached out to the MCA via email, seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to shift his domestic allegiance to Goa. Addressing the situation at the time, Naik told RevSportz, “All cricketers are respected by the MCA. As the apex council, we are constantly striving to provide them with the best possible support.”
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However, the narrative changed dramatically in May when Jaiswal decided to withdraw his NOC request, expressing a renewed commitment to continue representing Mumbai. The MCA approved the withdrawal, a move that caught many off guard.
Speaking to Mumbai Mirror about the reason behind Jaiswal’s U-turn, Naik disclosed that it was Rohit Sharma who stepped in with a timely intervention. “Rohit asked Yashasvi to stay on in Mumbai at this stage of his career. He explained to Yashasvi that there was a lot of pride and prestige in playing for a team like Mumbai, which has won the Ranji Trophy a record 42 times. Rohit also told Yashasvi that he must not forget that it was because of Mumbai cricket that he got a platform to show his talent and go on to play for India, and he must be grateful to the city for that. It was here in Mumbai that he started playing cricket on the maidans and then was picked for all the age group teams of Mumbai.”
Naik further added that Jaiswal also sought advice from several other former Indian and Mumbai players before making his final call.
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“After speaking with Rohit and a few other veterans who’ve represented both Mumbai and India, Yashasvi emailed us requesting to withdraw his NOC. We accepted his request,” he stated.
With the decision now final, the rising left-hander will continue to don the Mumbai jersey in domestic competitions. Jaiswal, who has been in exceptional form, is also expected to feature in India’s squad for the upcoming Asia Cup in the UAE.
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