Big blow to Mumbai's Ranji team: Sachin Tendulkar confirms son seeks NOC citing 'lack of playing time'

"Getting maximum game time on the ground is important for Arjun at this juncture of his career. We believe that the shift will improve the probability of Arjun featuring in more competitive matches. He is embarking on a new phase of his cricketing career," Tendulkar said while confirming the switch.

Goa Cricket Association president Suraj Lotilkar also added that the side were looking for a left-arm pacer, and have now got one, "We are in need of a left-arm pacer and Arjun has showed interest. We generally recruit professionals and if he suits our team's requirements he will be picked. It is up to our selectors."

22-year-old Arjun was a part of the Mumbai Ranji Trophy team for the league stages of the 2021-22 season, but did not make it to the knockouts squad. However, given the quality of talent available in Mumbai, the youngster could not make it to the XI at any stage.

Meanwhile, Mumbai chief selector Salil Ankola hopes that the move will give a boost to Arjun's career. "We picked him for the Ranji Trophy last year but he could not make the XI. He is an extremely talented boy and all he needs is some match time so that he can prove his abilities. I hope this switch will serve that purpose," Ankola, a former India pacer, told Cricbuzz.

The domestic season starts on September 8, 2022, but the inter-state competition that can provide Arjun his real opportunity will take place in two months when the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league stage gets underway from October 11 to 22.

The Ranji season starts on December 13. Goa finished fourth in Elite Group D of the Ranji Trophy last season with one draw and two losses.