Sachin Tendulkar backs Suraj Samat for MCA's secretariat position ahead of elections

The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) is being subjected to change after the untimely demise of its President, Amol Kale in June 2023. This led to Ajinkya Rahane rising above the ranks of Secretary and hold the coveted position of President. As the position of Secretary remains vacant still, the election for the position is on the cards with the due date to submit nominations between August 21 and August 26, respectively. 

MCA’s electoral officer, JS Saharia, will oversee the election and the result is scheduled for September 3. According to reports from TOI, Suraj Samat, poised to contest for the position, got his name proposed by legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Moreover, this marks the first instance Tendulkar has intervened in MCA elections. Kale’s wife, Minal Kale, has also backed Samat, who will wrestle against Abhay Hadap. 

"It is with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of commitment that I am contesting for the position of MCA honorary secretary. My passion for the game and dedication to the cricketing community inspire me to serve and carry forward the vision of our esteemed former president, Amol Kale. I pledge to build upon his legacy of transparency, inclusivity, and empowering our members," Samat told TOI.

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My focus will be on ensuring success Mumbai Premier League: Samat

Before the state leagues mushroomed around India, the Mumbai T20 League was a pioneer in bringing in local talent on public display. The league started in 2018 and was shelved after its second season in 2019. In April, late Amol Kale had mentioned that the tournament might be revived with (Mumbai Premier League) MPL as its new identity. Suraj Samat, who is aspiring for the Secretary position, has vowed to bring back the league into existence and work towards to betterment of club cricketers. 

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"My focus will be on ensuring the success of initiatives like the Mumbai Premier League, which will provide a vital platform for Mumbai's talented cricketers. With the support of our members, the guidance of legends like Sachin Tendulkar, and the trust and faith placed in me by Minal Amol Kale, I am confident that I will be able to drive positive change and contribute to MCA's legacy of excellence in Indian cricket," Samat concluded.