How it unfolded
As the cricketing world gears up for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Arjun Tendulkar, son of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, has made headlines with his recent move to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This transition comes after a modest start to his IPL career, where he played for the Mumbai Indians since 2021. The decision to join LSG marks a pivotal moment for Arjun, as he seeks to establish himself in the competitive landscape of professional cricket.
Arjun’s journey in the IPL began in 2021 when he was picked by the Mumbai Indians for ₹20 lakh. Over the next two seasons, he participated in five matches but struggled to make a significant impact. His debut season in 2023 saw him play four matches, during which he managed to take three wickets, showcasing glimpses of his potential. However, his performance in 2024 was less fruitful, as he featured in just one game against LSG without claiming any wickets.
In a strategic move ahead of the mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi, Arjun was traded to LSG for ₹30 lakh. This decision reflects not only the franchise’s confidence in his abilities but also Arjun’s determination to carve out a successful career in cricket, following in the footsteps of his father, who was known for his exceptional skills and heavy bats.
Interestingly, Arjun has a preference for a bat weight of 1220 grams, a choice that has drawn comparisons to his father’s equipment. Sachin Tendulkar famously used bats weighing between 1310 and 1315 grams during his illustrious career. Rishabh Pant, a prominent figure in Indian cricket, expressed curiosity about Arjun’s choice, asking, “Tera kitna hae bhai (What’s the weight of your bat)?” To which Arjun confidently replied, “1220.” Pant further questioned the advantages of using heavier bats, to which Arjun remarked, “Papa toh 1310-1315 mein khelte the. 1200 se halka jaata nehi hoon main (My father used to play with bats weighing 1310-1315. I don’t go below 1200).”
As Arjun prepares for the upcoming season, he has been honing his skills, including training with cricketing great Yuvraj Singh immediately after his wedding on March 5, 2026. This mentorship could prove invaluable as he aims to enhance his performance and contribute significantly to LSG’s campaign.
The Lucknow Super Giants are set to begin their IPL 2026 journey against the Delhi Capitals on April 1. This match will be crucial for Arjun, as it will mark his first official appearance for the franchise. With the weight of expectations on his shoulders, he has the opportunity to showcase his talent and prove his worth in the league.
Arjun’s journey is not just about cricket; it is also about living up to the legacy of his father, Sachin Tendulkar. The cricketing community is watching closely as he navigates this new chapter in his career. His dedication and work ethic have already garnered admiration from peers like Rishabh Pant, who recognizes the effort Arjun puts into his training and preparation.
As the IPL season approaches, the anticipation surrounding Arjun Tendulkar’s performance with the Lucknow Super Giants continues to build. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure will be critical not only for his career but also for the legacy of the Tendulkar name in cricket.
