Indian cricket legend, Sachin Tendulkar reportedly backed Suraj Samant for the post of Secretary of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). Other than Tendulkar, the wife of late Amol Kale too had backed Samant. However, Abhay Hadap won the position of MCA Secretary with 196 votes whereas Samant received 141 votes as the results of the election were declared on September 3.Hadap is a known name in the local cricket circuit of Mumbai. Hailing from Adarsh Nagar, Worli, and coming from a humble background, Hadap's victory has been considered a milestone. After the victory, he promised to work for Mumbai Cricket and termed his victory as a "common man's victory." Hadap stated as quoted by TOI, "I never even dreamt that I'll become the MCA secretary one day, or that I'll reach this level. This is a common man's victory. My win was possible because of all the maidan club secretaries and cricketers. I have one year in hand and that is more than sufficient for me to do a lot of things for Mumbai cricket and the maidans. I'd like to work with the Apex Council and our president Ajinkya Naik, whose motto is also the same as mine-to serve cricket," There were already rumors of Hadap becoming the Secretary of MCA, considering MCA President Ajinkya Naik did not leave any stone unturned to support him for the post. Following his victory in this election, Ajinkya lovingly reminisced about the Under-14 tournament that Hadap had organized. Naik stated, "Hadap has been working for maidan cricket for the last 35 years. Around 25 years ago, when I was a kid, I played in the Ajit Naik Under-14 Tournament at Worli. Hadap is one of the pioneers of that tournament and is still organizing that event. He played a crucial role in the MCA organizing more than 105 local cricket tournaments last season. I wish Hadap the best of luck in his efforts to enhance Mumbai cricket and elevate the MCA to the next level,” Also Read | Duleep Trophy 2024: Complete Schedule, Dates, Venues, Where to Watch