Goa appoints Dinesh Mongia as head coach

In a major development, the Goa Cricket Association has roped in former India international Dinesh Mongia as the head coach of the senior men’s team, whereas JP Yadav has been named the U-23 coach.

It is worth noting that Mongia represented India in 57 ODIs and a single T20I. He served as the coach of Odisha in the previous season; however, he was replaced by Surendra Bhave, and this prompted him to take up the coaching role with Goa. Furthermore, JP Yadav will be replacing  Swapnil Asnodkar as the U-23 coach, and the GCA hopes that his experience playing with India will help the youngsters. 

As for the players, the board has opted to continue with Arjun Tendulkar and K.V. Siddharth, with Rohan Kadam being added to the roster after Rahul Tripathi made his return to Maharashtra. Kadam took a NOC from the Karnataka State Cricket Association last season to facilitate his move to Goa. However, as the GCA signed Tripathi, Kadam had to miss out. He will be expected to feature this season.

According to reports, the majority members of the GCA apex council decided to give Arjun Tendulkar another chance, who scored 258 runs in the Ranji Trophy and claimed nine wickets.

Tripura Cricket Association rope in talent as well

On the other hand, the Tripura Cricket Association has roped in Jiwanjot Singh and Mandeep Singh. However, their search for a wicketkeeper-batter continues due to Wriddhiman Saha returning to Bengal. 

Mandeep Singh has already sought out a NOC from Punjab Cricket Association. “We have received his application for NOC. It’s definitely a big loss for Punjab cricket, but if a player wants to move elsewhere for better prospects, why should we stop?” PCA president Amarjeet Singh was quoted as saying by Sportstar.

Jiwanjot played for Uttrakhand in the previous season, whereas Mandeep Singh captained Punjab to its Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy win last season.