Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of Indian cricket’s brightest young stars, has surprised fans and selectors alike by reversing his decision to leave Mumbai and join Goa for the upcoming domestic season. After weeks of speculation and reports of a move motivated by both personal and professional reasons, Jaiswal has now formally requested the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) to allow him to continue representing Mumbai in domestic cricket.
A Sudden Change of Heart
Just weeks ago, the cricket world was abuzz with news that Jaiswal, Mumbai’s prolific left-handed opener and India’s Test sensation, would be switching allegiances to Goa. Reports suggested that Jaiswal had already been granted a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) by the MCA, paving the way for him to captain Goa in the 2025–26 season. The move was seen as a significant loss for Mumbai, given Jaiswal’s stellar record and emotional connection to the city where he rose from humble beginnings to cricketing stardom.
However, in a dramatic twist, Jaiswal has written to the MCA, clarifying that his family’s plans to move to Goa have now been put on hold. He emphasized that he has not submitted the NOC to either the BCCI or the Goa Cricket Association, and sincerely requested to withdraw his transfer application.
“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,” Jaiswal wrote in his email to the MCA.
Why Did Jaiswal Consider Leaving Mumbai?
Several factors contributed to Jaiswal’s initial decision to seek a transfer:
Family Relocation: Jaiswal initially cited plans for his family to shift to Goa as a primary reason for the move.
Leadership Opportunity: Goa reportedly offered Jaiswal the captaincy, a tempting prospect for the young batter looking to take on more responsibility.
Reported Team Dynamics: There were rumors of a rift with Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane, although Jaiswal has not commented on this publicly.
Despite these factors, Jaiswal’s deep-rooted bond with Mumbai cricket appears to have won out. The city has been central to his journey, from his days as a struggling youngster at Azad Maidan to becoming a mainstay in Mumbai’s domestic setup.
Mumbai Cricket Association Yet to Decide
While Jaiswal’s request to stay has been made clear, the ball is now in the MCA’s court. The association must decide whether to accept his withdrawal of the NOC and reintegrate him into the squad for the upcoming season. Given his impressive record-over 3,700 runs in 36 first-class matches at an average above 60-his presence would be a huge boost for Mumbai’s campaign.
Jaiswal’s Recent Form and Future Prospects
Jaiswal’s domestic and international performances have made him a player to watch:
Domestic Cricket: Debuted for Mumbai in 2019; averages 60.85 in first-class cricket.
IPL 2025: After a slow start, Jaiswal has shown glimpses of his explosive talent, nearing the 2,000-run milestone in IPL history.
International Cricket: A standout in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scoring 391 runs in five Tests.
With the IPL 2025 season suspended and domestic cricket set to take center stage, Jaiswal’s decision to remain with Mumbai could not have come at a more crucial time.
FAQs: Jaiswal’s Decision to Stay with Mumbai
1. Why did Yashasvi Jaiswal initially want to move to Goa?
Jaiswal considered moving to Goa due to family relocation plans and the opportunity to captain the state side.
2. Did Jaiswal officially join Goa?
No, Jaiswal did not submit his NOC to the BCCI or Goa Cricket Association and has formally requested to stay with Mumbai.
3. What is Jaiswal’s record for Mumbai?
Jaiswal has scored over 3,700 runs in 36 first-class matches for Mumbai, averaging above 60 with 12 centuries and 12 fifties.
4. Has the Mumbai Cricket Association accepted his request?
As of now, the MCA is yet to make a final decision regarding Jaiswal’s withdrawal of his NOC.
5. How has Jaiswal performed in IPL 2025?
Jaiswal has had a mixed IPL 2025 season but is close to reaching 2,000 IPL runs, making him one of the fastest Indians to achieve this milestone.
Conclusion
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s U-turn is a testament to his enduring connection with Mumbai cricket. While the prospect of leading Goa was tempting, his loyalty to Mumbai and unfinished business with the team have brought him back. As the MCA weighs its options, fans will be eager to see Jaiswal don the Mumbai jersey once again, ready to script new chapters in his already remarkable career.