Arjun Tendulkar is all set for a fresh start in the IPL after being traded from Mumbai Indians to Lucknow Super Giants, one of the most notable moves after the franchise was announced. The left-arm bowling all-rounder is changing bases after two seasons with MI, opening the door to a new set of coaches, a different dressing room environment and an opportunity to revive his career. Arjun first entered the IPL in 2021 when Mumbai signed him for Rs 20 lakh in the mini-auction. Although he traveled with the team to UAE as a net bowler during IPL 2020, he did not feature in any matches that year. MI bought him back in the 2022 mega-auction, this time for Rs 30 lakh, despite competition from Gujarat Titans who also made a bid. Expectations of a 2022 start have not materialized.
His much-awaited debut finally arrived in 2023. In four matches, he picked up 3 wickets while giving away 92 runs off 59 deliveries and added 13 runs with the bat. Although he showed glimpses of promise, MI’s depth in fast bowling made it difficult for him to get consistent playing time. The move to Lucknow does not change his salary. LSG retained his existing contract of Rs 30 lakh for IPL 2026, the same amount he earns since the 2022 mega-auction. This places him among the most economical overall options in the league, especially with his ability to play in the power play and contribute in the lower orders.
