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Sharad Pawar Panel Sweeps MCA Elections Amid Political Power Play

The Sharad Pawar panel dominated the Mumbai Cricket Association elections, winning 12 out of 16 contested posts. Ajinkya Naik retained the President's position unopposed with backing from both Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Sharad Pawar. Several high-profile candidates withdrew their nominations following a crucial meeting between the political leaders. The election results showcase continued political influence in Mumbai's cricket administration despite internal power shifts.

Key Points: Sharad Pawar Panel Wins 12 Posts in Mumbai Cricket Association Polls

  • Sharad Pawar's panel secured 12 out of 16 contested managing committee posts
  • President Ajinkya Naik retained position unopposed with dual political backing
  • NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad won Vice-President post defeating opponent 201-155
  • Several candidates withdrew after Pawar-Fadnavis meeting cleared paths
2 min read

Sharad Pawar panel wins 12 posts in MCA elections, Ajinkya Naik elected Prez unopposed

Ajinkya Naik elected MCA President unopposed as Sharad Pawar's panel dominates elections with 12 wins, backed by CM Fadnavis and political heavyweights.

"It's a victory for our Maidan clubs, secretaries, and every cricketer, men and women. - Ajinkya Naik"

Mumbai, Nov 12

The all-powerful Sharad Pawar Panel won 12 out of the 16 posts contested for the managing committee of the Mumbai Cricket Association, the elections for which were contested on Wednesday.

However, they did not get the all-important post of the President that incumbent Ajinkya S Naik retained unopposed. Naik is considered to have the backing of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, but had, before the elections, met former MCA and BCCI President Sharad Pawar and sought his blessings too. Ajinkya Naik's path to being elected unopposed was cleared following a meeting between Pawar and CM Fadnavis.

Former India women's team captain Diana Edulji, BJP MLC Prasad Lad, and some other potential candidates interested in contesting for the President's post withdrew, while NCP (SP) MLA and former minister Jitendra Awhad decided to contest for the vice-president's post, as did Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Milind Narvekar, who contested for Apex Council membership.

"It's a victory for our Maidan clubs, secretaries, and every cricketer, men and women. This win belongs to the entire Mumbai Cricket family! With the powerful support of Hon'ble Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Ji and Sharad Pawar Ji, this success became possible. Heartfelt thanks to Ashish Ji Shelar for his continued guidance and encouragement," said Ajinkya Naik after the elections.

The Sharad Pawar Panel won the Vice-President post with NCP (SP) MLA and former minister Jitendra Awhad, who was earlier a member of the Apex Council, trouncing his opponent Navin Krishna Shetty 201-155 votes. Umesh Khanwilkar won the Secretary's post by polling 227 votes to 122 by Shahalam Shaikh, while Nilesh Bhosale was elected joint-secretary as he bagged 228 votes as against 129. Surendra Shewale of the panel bagged 119 votes as against 228 by Arman Mallick in the race for the Treasurer's post.

Apart from these office-bearers, Pradeep Gupta and Kenny Bharat Sachidanand, representing the panel, were elected as Council Members, while Vignesh Kadam, Nadeem Menon, Milind Narvekar (retained), and Vikas Repale were elected Apex Council Members.

Pramod Yadav, Suraj Samant, and Sandeep Vichare were elected Apex Council Members, while Neel Sawant was voted as an Independent Apex Council Member. Rajdipkumar Gupta was unopposed as chairman of the governing council.

The election of many of these candidates became easier as several potential candidates withdrew from the elections following the meeting between the top leaders.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good to see Diana Edulji's name in the mix, though she withdrew. We need more women representation in cricket administration. Hope next time we see more women candidates actually contesting!
A
Arjun K
Sharad Pawar panel winning 12 out of 16 posts shows their dominance in Mumbai cricket politics. But honestly, when will we see actual cricketers running cricket associations instead of politicians? 🤔
M
Michael C
The withdrawal of candidates after the Pawar-Fadnavis meeting raises questions about democratic processes. Cricket administration should be more transparent and less about backroom deals.
S
Shreya B
As a Mumbai cricket fan, I just hope these elections lead to better facilities for local players and more opportunities for young talent from maidan clubs. That's what really matters! 👍
V
Vikram M
Mumbai cricket has produced so many legends. Hope this new committee focuses on grassroots development and doesn't get caught in political games. The future of Indian cricket depends on strong local associations!

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