Former India cricketer Yograj Singh has made a bold statement regarding the future of Arjun Tendulkar, the son of legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar. Yograj believes that with the right mentorship, Arjun could evolve into a powerhouse batter reminiscent of T20 legend Chris Gayle.
“With regards to Arjun, I said, focus less on his bowling and more on his batting. But if Yuvraj – he and Sachin are so close – takes Sachin’s son under his wings for three months, I bet he will become the next Chris Gayle. Often it happens that a fast bowler, if he undergoes a stress fracture, cannot bowl as effectively. I think that Arjun should be handed over to Yuvraj for a while,” Yograj Singh told CricketNext.
Backing Arjun Tendulkar’s potential
Yograj’s comments come at a time when Arjun Tendulkar is still finding his footing in professional cricket. Having started his career as a left-arm fast bowler, Arjun has also showcased his abilities with the bat, hinting at his potential to be a genuine all-rounder.
Singh emphasized that young players like Arjun need special nurturing and proper guidance to maximize their natural talent. He sees Yuvraj Singh — one of India’s most explosive batters — as the perfect mentor to unlock Arjun’s true batting prowess.
Recent challenges in Arjun’s career
Arjun Tendulkar last featured in competitive cricket in December, representing Goa in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Just a month prior, he grabbed attention by recording his maiden five-wicket haul in First-Class cricket, finishing with impressive figures of 5 for 25 against Arunachal Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy.
In the IPL, Arjun has turned out for Mumbai Indians across six matches to date. During the 2023 season, he appeared in four games and picked up three wickets. However, the 2024 campaign proved more challenging. With MI already eliminated from playoff contention, Arjun struggled in a match against Lucknow Super Giants, conceding two massive sixes off consecutive full-tosses to Nicholas Pooran. To add to his woes, he suffered an injury mid-over and was forced to leave the field, unable to complete his spell. The stress fracture, previously highlighted by Yograj Singh, remains a persistent hurdle in Arjun’s early career.
The vision for a ‘Chris Gayle 2.0’
Comparing Arjun to Chris Gayle, one of the most destructive batters in cricket history, is no small claim. But Yograj’s belief is rooted in his experience observing transformations in players who receive dedicated and focused coaching.
While Arjun’s bowling continues to be a part of his skill set, Yograj suggests that focusing on batting could open greater opportunities for him, particularly given the physical demands and injury risks associated with fast bowling.
The road ahead for Arjun Tendulkar
As Arjun continues to work on his game, Yograj’s proposal puts a spotlight on the value of mentorship and specialized training in shaping the next generation of Indian cricket stars. With icons like Yuvraj Singh potentially playing a role in his development, Arjun’s journey promises to be one to watch closely in the coming years.
Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
