In a dramatic reversal, Indian Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal will continue to represent Mumbai in the 2025–26 domestic cricket season, following the Mumbai Cricket Association’s (MCA) approval of his request to withdraw a previously submitted No Objection Certificate (NOC). The 23-year-old had earlier shocked the cricketing fraternity by seeking a move to Goa, where he was reportedly offered a leadership role. However, citing personal reasons, Jaiswal has now reaffirmed his commitment to Mumbai cricket.
📌 Key Developments
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial NOC Request | April 2025 – Jaiswal requested NOC to play for Goa |
| NOC Withdrawal Request | May 2025 – Cited family relocation plans being curtailed |
| MCA Decision | June 30, 2025 – Apex Council approved withdrawal of NOC |
| Current Status | Jaiswal will play for Mumbai in 2025–26 domestic season |
| MCA Statement | “Jaiswal has always been a proud product of Mumbai cricket” |
🧾 The U-Turn: What Prompted the Change?
In April, Jaiswal had formally requested an NOC from the MCA to switch to Goa, where he was expected to take on a leadership role. However, in May, he submitted a letter to the MCA stating:
“I had some family plans in shifting to Goa which for now has been curtailed. I sincerely request MCA to allow me to play for Mumbai this season. I have not submitted the NOC to BCCI nor to Goa Cricket Association.”
The MCA, acknowledging his contribution and legacy within Mumbai cricket, accepted the withdrawal and confirmed his availability for the upcoming season.
🔄 Timeline of Events
| Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| April 2025 | Jaiswal requests NOC to move to Goa |
| May 2025 | Submits withdrawal request to MCA |
| June 30, 2025 | MCA Apex Council approves withdrawal of NOC |
| July 2025 | Jaiswal confirmed for Mumbai’s 2025–26 domestic season squad |
🧠 Why the Move to Goa Was Considered
Jaiswal’s initial decision to move to Goa was reportedly influenced by a leadership opportunity and personal relocation plans. Sources indicated that he was being considered for captaincy and a central role in Goa’s domestic setup. However, the reversal suggests a renewed commitment to Mumbai’s cricketing legacy and perhaps a resolution of internal team dynamics.
🏏 Jaiswal’s Domestic Record with Mumbai
Since debuting in 2019, Jaiswal has been a consistent performer for Mumbai. His domestic stats reflect his reliability and potential:
| Format | Matches | Runs Scored | Average | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 10 | 863 | 53.93 | 4 | 2 | 181 |
| List A | 32 | 1,511 | 53.96 | 5 | 7 | 203 |
| T20 | 45 | 1,276 | 32.71 | 1 | 9 | 124 |
📈 Recent Form and National Duty
Jaiswal is currently part of India’s Test squad in England. He scored a century in the opening Test at Leeds, though India lost the match by five wickets. His form at the international level has made him a key figure in India’s red-ball setup, and his domestic presence will be crucial for Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy ambitions.
🧩 MCA’s Official Statement
MCA President Ajinkya Naik said:
“Yashasvi has always been a proud product of Mumbai cricket. We have accepted Jaiswal’s withdrawal NOC application and he will be available for Mumbai in the forthcoming domestic season.”
The MCA also announced the return of the Dr. HD Kanga League from July 20 and the formation of a cricket committee for differently-abled players.
🗳️ Implications for Mumbai Cricket
Jaiswal’s return is a major boost for Mumbai, especially with the team aiming to reclaim its dominance in the Ranji Trophy. His presence strengthens the top order and brings experience to a relatively young squad.
SWOT Analysis: Mumbai with Jaiswal
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
| Proven top-order stability | Internal team dynamics |
| Experience in high-pressure games | Injury concerns (ankle in 2024) |
| Strong domestic record | Leadership vacuum post Rahane era |
| Opportunities | Threats |
|---|---|
| Ranji Trophy title push | Player migration to other states |
| Grooming next-gen leaders | Discontent among senior players |
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s decision to stay with Mumbai underscores his deep-rooted connection with the city’s cricketing legacy. As the 2025–26 domestic season approaches, all eyes will be on the young opener to lead Mumbai’s charge with the bat and reaffirm his status as one of India’s brightest cricketing talents.
