Sachin Tendulkar was reported to have played a straight drive on behalf of Suraj Samant’s contestation for the next Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) Secretary race. Not only Tendulkar, but even former MCA Secretary, late Amol Kale’s wife also backed Samant to hold the position. But as the results of the election were out on September 3, Abhay Hadap (196 votes) pipped Samant (141 votes) by a margin of 55 votes to become the new MCA Secretary.
Hadap is a revered figure in Mumbai’s local cricketing circuit. He used to organize local tournaments across several grounds in the city. Hailing from Adarsh Nagar in Worli, Hadap has nothing but a humble background to look back after having secured the coveted position. After emerging victorious by a thrilling margin, Hadap vowed to take Mumbai cricket forward and termed his win as a ‘common man’s victory.’
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“I never even dreamt that I’ll become the MCA secretary one day, or that I’ll reach this level. This is a common man’s victory. My win was possible because of all the maidan club secretaries and cricketers. I have one year in hand and that is more than sufficient for me to do a lot of things for Mumbai cricket and the maidans. I’d like to work with the Apex Council and our president Ajinkya Naik, whose motto is also the same as mine-to serve cricket,” said Hadap as quoted by TOI.
Hadap has been working for maidan cricket for last 35 years: Ajinkya Naik
Moreover, the rumours of Hadap becoming the secretary of MCA were abuzz as the veteran was backed by MCA President, Ajinkya Naik. After Hadap’s win, Ajinkya was quick to recall playing a Under-14 tournament which was pioneered by the latest MCA Secretary.
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“Hadap has been working for maidan cricket for the last 35 years. Around 25 years ago, when I was a kid, I played in the Ajit Naik Under-14 Tournament at Worli. Hadap is one of the pioneers of that tournament, and is still organising that event. He played a crucial role in the MCA organizing more than 105 local cricket tournaments last season. I wish Hadap the best of luck in his efforts to enhance Mumbai cricket and elevate the MCA to the next level,” said Naik.
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