‘Yashasvi Jaiswal Kicked Ajinkya Rahane’s Kitbag’: Friction With Senior Sparks Mumbai Exit, Say Reports

India star Jaiswal moves to Goa ahead of 2025–26 season amid reported fallout with Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane and team management

April 04, 2025: In a major domestic cricket shake-up, India’s rising opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has opted to switch from Mumbai to Goa, starting the 2025–26 Indian domestic season. While Jaiswal cited leadership opportunities as the reason behind the move, multiple reports suggest underlying friction with Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane and team management may have played a key role in his decision.

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Jaiswal formally communicated his decision to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) earlier this week, which swiftly approved the release. Sources now claim that the 23-year-old’s equation with Rahane had become “untenable”, dating back to an incident in 2022 when Jaiswal was reportedly sent off the field for excessive sledging.

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The Tension Timeline

• During a Duleep Trophy game in 2022, Jaiswal had smashed a memorable 265 but was removed from the field by then West Zone captain Rahane for sledging batter Ravi Teja.
• Reports claim the Mumbai setup constantly questioned Jaiswal’s shot selection and attitude.
• A verbal spat occurred during a match against Jammu & Kashmir, where Jaiswal reportedly confronted a senior player, questioning his own dismissals.
• According to India Today, in a moment of anger, Jaiswal allegedly kicked Rahane’s kitbag after being criticized for lack of commitment.

While Jaiswal has not publicly acknowledged any rift, a PTI report supported the claims, noting “displeasure with the Mumbai team management” as a potential reason for his move.

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Jaiswal’s Statement

In his official comments, Jaiswal was diplomatic:

“Whatever I am today is because of Mumbai… Goa has offered me a new opportunity, including a leadership role. Whenever I am not playing for India, I will try my best to take Goa deep into the tournament.”

Despite the move, Jaiswal remains a core member of India’s national setup and is expected to balance domestic commitments in Goa with international duties.

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Tags: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane, Mumbai Cricket Association, Goa Cricket, Indian Domestic Cricket, India Cricket Team, MCA, Cricket Controversy, Jaiswal Rahane Rift, Yashasvi Goa Move, Indian Cricket 2025, Domestic Transfers, Ranji Trophy