Arjun Tendulkar opens up on Mumbai Indians exit: ‘No one wants to sit on the bench’

Arjun Tendulkar began his new journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) by signing up for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Though he was not a part of the playing XI in LSG’s opening clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday, he is expected to play a part as the season goes on.

Arjun’s first foray in the IPL came in 2021 when he was signed by the Mumbai Indians, the franchise his legendary father Sachin Tendulkar led during his playing days.

Arjun was a part of the MI squad from 2021 to 2025 but got to play in only 5 matches for the team. So it was obvious he was looking at a team that would give him more opportunities on the field.

Arjun talked candidly about his time at MI and the few opportunities he had at the franchise in an interview on Shubhankar Mishra's podcast.

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"You played a few matches for Mumbai Indians (MI) and bowled well. Your swing was good, so did you feel you should have gotten more opportunities?" Arjun was asked.

He replied, "Who doesn't feel that? No one wants to sit on the bench. But we want to work hard and perform when we get a chance."

Arjun also discussed his opinions on the IPL's contentious Impact Player rule, which has recently drawn criticism from some Indian internationals. Arjun agreed, stating that cricket should be played as an 11-player game.

"Pick 11 and play. Because in international T20s, and in any other league, there is no Impact Player. So, I am personally against the Impact Player rule."

As LSG have a strong top order, Arjun may get a chance at number 6, 7, or 8 spot later in the tournament. Arjun is prepared to bat at any position given, even if he is unsure of the opportunities he will have this season.

On his team's middle order, the all-rounder said: "Our middle order is also very powerful. T20 is a game where anyone can beat anyone, so I think we have a bright chance to do well in this tournament."

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