Arjun Tendulkar bags maiden Ranji 5-fer, delivers perfect IPL mega auction audition
With the IPL mega auction approaching, Arjun Tendulkar has made a timely statement with the ball. The left-arm pacer had a disappointing 2024 IPL season and was not retained by Mumbai Indians. However, with the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy starting just before the auction, Arjun saw the Goa vs Arunachal Pradesh Ranji Trophy match as his opportunity to impress.
Arunachal Pradesh has struggled this season, losing four consecutive matches in the Ranji Trophy Plate. Arjun took full advantage, dismantling their top and middle order. He claimed his maiden five-wicket haul, clean bowling three batters, trapping one LBW, and having another caught.
Although Arjun doesn’t bowl at express pace, he consistently moves the new ball, as he demonstrated in this match. His first-class career, consisting of 16 matches with 32 wickets, had lacked a standout performance until now. This fifer, so close to the IPL auction, boosts his chances of catching the attention of multiple franchises.
If Arjun can also prove himself with the bat, his all-round potential could make him a valuable asset, with Mumbai Indians potentially showing renewed interest. His latest performance couldn’t have come at a better time.