The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) was founded in 1930 as the Bombay Cricket Association, as the leading cricket body in Mumbai and a key member of the BCCI.
Known for its rich legacy and strong talent pipeline, MCA manages cricket across Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Navi Mumbai.
Based at Wankhede Stadium, it runs academies, coaching programs, and selection committees that have shaped Indian cricket for decades.
This guide breaks down MCA’s history, structure, selection process, and how young cricketers can be part of this iconic institution.
Mumbai Cricket Association: Legacy & Historical Overview
The Mumbai Cricket Association has established itself as the most dominant force in Indian domestic cricket through its exceptional tournament structure and consistent performance.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1930 (as Bombay Cricket Association) |
| Affiliation | Permanent Member of BCCI |
| Jurisdiction | Mumbai, Greater Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Navi Mumbai |
| Headquarters | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
Since its inception, MCA has transformed from a regional association into the gold standard for cricket administration in India.
The association’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its meticulous organisation of tournaments across all age groups and categories, ensuring that talent is identified and nurtured at every level.
MCA’s tournament ecosystem includes everything from grassroots cricket to elite competitions, creating a rigorous pathway for players to progress from local clubs to international cricket.
The association’s emphasis on maintaining high standards in pitch preparation, match conduct, and player development has made it the preferred destination for cricket enthusiasts nationwide.
This systematic approach has contributed significantly to Mumbai’s unparalleled success in domestic cricket and its consistent contribution to the Indian national team.
MCA Highlights:
Mumbai Cricket Association’s cricketing achievements speak volumes about its dominance and consistency over the years.
Here are some of the standout highlights that showcase MCA’s legacy in domestic cricket.
- Ranji Trophy Winners: 42 times (Record holders)
- Ranji Trophy Runners-up: 6 times
- Record: 15 consecutive Ranji Trophy titles (1958–1973) — World Record
- Home of India’s first Test match (1932, Bombay Gymkhana)
- Hosts legacy tournaments: Kanga League, Harris Shield, Giles Shield
Major MCA Tournaments and Leagues
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) oversees a wide range of tournaments and leagues across various categories.
These competitions cater to different age groups, genders, and skill levels, fostering talent and promoting competitive cricket throughout the region.
Below is a summary of the major MCA tournaments and leagues, organised by each category.
| Category | Example Tournaments |
|---|---|
| Senior Men’s Tournaments | MCA Men Senior Trophy, Purshottam Shield, Times Cricket Shield, Young Comrade Shield, Mahim Dadar Shield, Police Invitation Shield, Cosmopolitan Shield |
| Kanga League & Knockouts | Dr. H. D. Kanga League (A–H Division), Kanga Knockout (A–D Group) |
| Corporate Tournaments | MCA Corporate Trophy (A–C Divisions) |
| Women’s Tournaments | MCA Women’s League (A–D Divisions), Women’s President Cup (A–D Divisions), Women’s Knockouts, Women’s Summer Camp Tournaments, Women’s T20 Ghosh Trophy, John Bright Association Trophy, Dashing Super Women Cup |
| Age-Group Boys Tournaments | Kalpesh Koli Tournament (U-16), Payyade Trophy (U-16), Naren Tamhane Trophy (U-19), Manohar Sawant Trophy (U-19), U-19 K.C. Mahindra Shield, Shalini Bhalekar Trophy (U-23), Madhav Mantri Trophy (U-23) |
| Age-Group Girls Tournaments | U-14, U-15, U-16, U-17, U-19 Girls Summer Camp Tournaments, U-23 Women’s Tournaments |
| President’s Cup Divisions | MCA President Cup (A–H Divisions) |
| Other Shield Tournaments | Seth Gordhandas Shield, Padmakar Talim Shield, Liberal Shield, Kurla Bapat Shield, Thosar Shield, Mumbai Junior Shield, Summer Vacation Shield |
MCA’s comprehensive tournament structure guarantees year-round cricket action for players across all age groups and skill levels.
The association offers a competitive platform for every aspiring cricketer, from school competitions and club leagues to senior divisions and corporate tournaments.
This structure promotes growth, exposure, and consistent game time throughout the season.
MCA Office Bearers & Leadership (2025)
The MCA’s leadership team plays a crucial role in guiding the association’s operations and strategic direction.
Below is the list of key office bearers for 2025, along with their contact details for reference.
| Post | Name | Contact No. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| President | Ajinkya Naik | +91-22-2279 5522 | ajinkya.naik@mumbaicricket.com |
| Vice President | Sanjay Naik | +91-22-2279 5588 | sanjay.naik@mumbaicricket.com |
| Secretary | Abhay Hadap | +91-22-2279 5511 | abhay.hadap@mumbaicricket.com |
| Jt. Secretary | Deepak Patil | +91-22-2279 5577 | deepak.patil@mumbaicricket.com |
| Treasurer | Arman Mallick | +91-22-2279 5533 | arman.mallick@mumbaicricket.com |
The current leadership team brings extensive cricket administration experience and maintains MCA’s tradition of transparent, efficient governance.
MCA Leadership – President Ajinkya Naik
The Mumbai Cricket Association is currently led by President Ajinkya Naik, a respected administrator known for his hands-on approach and commitment to grassroots cricket development.
Elected in 2023, Naik has focused on strengthening MCA’s youth programs, upgrading infrastructure, and ensuring transparent governance.
His leadership reflects a balance of tradition and modernity, aiming to nurture local talent while maintaining Mumbai’s legacy as a powerhouse in Indian cricket.
MCA’s Presidential History and Legacy: A Timeline Since 1930
The MCA’s legacy is shaped by the vision and leadership of its presidents over the decades. This timeline highlights the key figures who have steered the association since 1930, reflecting a rich history of commitment to cricket in Mumbai.
| Name | Tenure |
|---|---|
| Mr. Amol Kale | 4th October 2022 – 10th June 2024 |
| Dr. Vijay Patil | 4th October 2019 – 4th October 2022 |
| Mr. Ashish Shelar | 12th January 2017 – 6th April 2018 |
| Mr. Sharad G. Pawar | October 2013 – 12th January 2017 |
| Mr. Ravi Savant | August 2012 – October 2013 |
| Mr. Vilasrao D. Deshmukh | July 2011 – 14th August 2012 |
| Mr. Sharad G. Pawar | 2001/02 – 2010/11 |
| Mr. M. Joshi | 31st January 1992 – 2001 |
| Mr. M. K. Mantri | 1987/88 – 31st January 1992 |
| Mr. S. K. Wankhede | 1963/64 – 1986/87 |
| Mr. V. J. Divecha | 1961/62 – 1962/63 |
| Mr. B. C. Shah | 1959/60 – 1960/61 |
| Mr. A. A. Jasdenwala | 1957/58 – 1958/59 |
| Hon’ble Mr. Justice R. Tendolkar | 1949/50 – 1956/57 |
| Mr. A. A. A. Fyzee | 1948 – 1949 |
| Sir Homi Mehta | 1946/47 – 1947/48 |
| Dr. H. D. Kanga | 1943/44 – 1945/46 |
| Hon’ble Sir John W. F. Beaumont | 1935/36 – 1942/43 |
| Dr. H. D. Kanga | 1930 – 1935/36 |
MCA’s presidential succession showcases distinguished leadership spanning nearly a century, with notable figures like Dr. H.D. Kanga (founder), S.K. Wankhede (stadium namesake), and political leaders who strengthened cricket administration in Mumbai.
MCA’s Infrastructure & Training Centres
MCA’s infrastructure supports cricket development across Mumbai and beyond, combining iconic venues with state-of-the-art training facilities.
From the internationally renowned Wankhede Stadium to specialised academies, these centres provide players with the resources they need to excel.
- Wankhede Stadium (HQ) — International venue & BCCI HQ
- Sharad Pawar Indoor Cricket Academy (BKC) — World-class indoor academy with regular coaching sessions, talent hunts, and age-group camps
- Sachin Tendulkar Gymkhana (Kandivali) — Suburban facility with dedicated cricket grounds
- Plus a network of registered grounds across Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai & Palghar
MCA’s infrastructure network covers key locations across Mumbai, Greater Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar, ensuring that aspiring cricketers have access to quality facilities close to home.
From iconic stadiums like Wankhede to grassroots grounds and practice centres, MCA maintains international standards for training, coaching, and competitive matches, supporting talent at every stage.
List Of Grounds Under The Mumbai Cricket Association
Here’s a comprehensive list of cricket grounds managed and maintained by the Mumbai Cricket Association across key city zones.
Churchgate to Mumbai Central
- Azad Maidan
- Bombay Gymkhana
- Brabourne Stadium
- Cross Maidan
- Oval Maidan
- Wankhede Stadium
Mumbai Central to Dadar
- Shivaji Park Maidan
- Worli S.C.
Dadar to Borivali
- B. K. C. (MCA)
- C. P. C. C. (Andheri)
- Gamdevi S. C
- Goregoan S.C
- Indian Airlines
- Khar Gymkhana
- M.I.G.S.C
- Shivaji Park Maidan
Borivali to Dahanu
- Chimaji Appa Ground
- Gamdevi S. C
- Palghar Dahanu Taluka Sports Association
- Sainath S.C., Near Jivdani Temple
New Mumbai
- D.Y. Patil Sports Academy (Nerul)
Dadar (Central) to Thane
- Central Maidan (Thane)
- Dadkar Maidan
- R. C. F. (Chembur)
- Thane Sporting
Ground Rental Charges for Teams in MCA-Registered Tournaments
The following table outlines the ground rental charges for teams participating in MCA-registered tournaments.
Fees are based on the type of venue and match format, helping teams plan their budgets accordingly.
| Tournaments | Tents | Semi Permanent | Gymkhanas |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCA affiliate school/college (One-day or One T-20 match) | Rs. 3100 | Rs. 3100 | Rs. 3100 + GST |
| MCA affiliate school/college (Two T-20 matches) | Rs. 3600 | Rs. 3600 | Rs. 3600 + GST |
| Maidan Clubs (One-day or One T-20 match) | Rs. 4600 | Rs. 5250 | Rs. 5900 + GST |
| Maidan Clubs (Two T-20 matches) | Rs. 5100 | Rs. 5750 | Rs. 6400 + GST |
| Office Clubs (One-day or One T-20 match) | Rs. 4600 | Rs. 5850 | Rs. 7200 + GST |
| Office Clubs (Two T-20 matches) | Rs. 5100 | Rs. 6350 | Rs. 7700 + GST |
| Community or Other Matches (One-day or One T-20 match) | Rs. 4600 | Rs. 5850 | Rs. 7200 + GST |
| Community or Other Matches (Two T-20 matches) | Rs. 5100 | Rs. 6350 | Rs. 7700 + GST |
| Any Office Club or Community Finals (One-day or One T-20 match) | — | — | Rs. 8100 + GST |
| Any Office Club or Community Finals (Two T-20 matches) | — | — | Rs. 8600 + GST |
MCA follows a transparent, category-based ground rental system designed to balance affordability with quality maintenance.
Rental charges vary depending on the type of facility — whether it’s a club ground, practice wicket, or major stadium — making it easier for schools, clubs, and organisations to access suitable venues.
This structured approach helps sustain ground upkeep while promoting wide participation in cricket activities.
MCA Pitch Curating Process (As Recommended by Polly Umrigar)
Curating a quality cricket pitch requires a precise process, balancing soil types, layering, and careful maintenance.
Based on Polly Umrigar’s expert recommendations, this overview breaks down each stage to ensure optimal playing conditions.
| Stage | Process Summary |
|---|---|
| Understanding the Pitch | Even bounce, firm surface, balanced grass cover, supports pace early, spin later in long matches. |
| Soil Types Used | Black/Clay Soil: High binding, low porosity. Red Soil: Quick drying, low binding. Morrum: Good binding. |
| Pitch Layering (New Pitches) | 1. Base (3 ft deep): Ballast, bricks, charcoal/sand. 2. Soil Mixture Layers: Various mixes of soil, morrum, manure, with fine grass. |
| Number of Pitches | Odd numbers (5, 7, 9) to protect adjoining wickets and allow rotation for durability. |
| Watering & Rolling | Water morning & evening. Use light to heavy rollers based on grass growth stage. Pre-season rolling crucial for bounce. |
| Preparation Before Matches | Reduce heavy rolling 8-10 days prior. Control watering. Mow grass low but protect surface. Ensure dryness to depth of 3-4 inches. |
| Post-Match Care | Fill footmarks, apply manure, light watering for grass recovery. |
| Outfield Maintenance | Keep level, grassy with proper slope. Roll with 6/7-ton roller. Avoid weed growth. Dress with manure every 2 years. |
| Curator’s Role | Must adapt recommendations to local soil and weather. The timing of operations is key. |
| Cement Pitch Preparation | 12″ dig base with ballast and morrum. Cement layers with sand and concrete mix. The top layer is reinforced with iron shavings. Slight elevation to avoid waterlogging. |
MCA adheres to the renowned Polly Umrigar pitch preparation methodology, a scientific approach that sets the benchmark for quality playing surfaces in Mumbai.
This method focuses on selecting the right soil composition, implementing strategic layering techniques, and maintaining strict watering schedules.
Every step — from rolling to grass management — is executed with precision to produce pitches that offer a fair contest between bat and ball, balancing pace, bounce, and spin.
MCA’s commitment to these standards ensures consistent playing conditions across its venues, aligning with both domestic and international expectations.
How to Join or Register with MCA
Joining the Mumbai Cricket Association or registering for its tournaments involves a straightforward process.
Whether you’re a player, scorer, or club official, here’s how you can complete your registration and stay connected with MCA updates.
- Online Registration: Available on MCA’s official portal
- Player Transfers & Tournament Entry: Managed through the secretary login & documentation section
- Scorer Registration: MCA invites scorers to register each season using the official Scorer Availability Form, which can be downloaded from the website or collected from the office.
- Stay Updated: Via the official website, news updates, and social media
Note: The Scorer Availability Form shown here is from the 2016–17 season only shared for representation purpose. For the latest version and updated registration details, always refer to the official MCA website.
MCA’s registration processes, whether for players, scorers, or tournaments, are conducted through digital platforms and official documentation, ensuring efficient management and participation.
MCA Selection Process: How Does It Work?
Mumbai Cricket Association runs a structured, merit-based selection system across all age groups and genders. Here’s how it typically works:
Step 1: Open Trials & Talent Hunt Programs
MCA announces open trials for various age categories through its website and affiliated clubs.
Step 2: Performance-Based Shortlisting
Players are shortlisted based on performance in trials, practice matches, and inter-club tournaments.
Step 3: Selection Committee Evaluation
Dedicated selection committees observe performances in trials, nets, and matches before finalising squads.
Step 4: Squad Announcement & Follow-Up Camps
Final squads are announced officially, with selected players invited for training camps and practice sessions.
MCA Selection Committees (2025)
MCA’s selection committees play a vital role in identifying and nurturing talent across all age groups and genders.
Below is the list of committee chairs and members for 2025, responsible for shaping Mumbai’s cricket future.
Men’s Selection Committees
- Senior & U-23: Sanjay Patil (Chairman) + 4 members
- Under-19: Ravi Kulkarni (Chairman) + 4 members
- Under-16: Mandar Phadke (Chairman) + 4 members
- Under-14: Shridhar Mandale (Chairman) + 4 members
Women’s Selection Committees
- Senior & U-23: Laya Francis (Chairperson) + 4 members
- Under-19: Sunita Singh (Chairperson) + 4 members
- Under-15: Manish More (Chairman) + 4 members
MCA Coaches (2025)
The MCA coaching staff for 2025 includes experienced professionals dedicated to developing players across all levels.
Here’s an overview of the coaches leading various men’s and women’s teams this year.
Men’s Coaches
- Omkar Salvi — Senior Men
- Kiran Powar — Under-23
- Sandesh Kawle — Under-19
- Nilesh Masurkar — Under-16
- Ankeet Chavan — Under-14
Women’s Coaches
- Sunetra Paranjape — Senior Women
- Ajay Kadam — Under-23 Women
- Sunil Gawad — Under-19 Women
- Vikas Satam — Under-15 Girls
Academy Coaches
- Pradeep Sunderram, Akshay Girap, Mandar Sane, Hemangi Naik
Talent Hunt Program Coaches
- Men: Sameer Dighe (Head), Santosh Shinde, Raju Shirke
- Women: Sandeep Dahad (Head), Sheral Rozario, Amol Shejale
Indian Cricket Legends Produced by MCA
The Mumbai Cricket Association has been the cradle for some of India’s greatest cricket legends.
These players, nurtured through MCA’s system, have made a significant impact on both domestic and international cricket.
Notable Players:
- Sunil Gavaskar
- Sachin Tendulkar
- Dilip Vengsarkar
- Rohit Sharma
- Ajit Agarkar
- Zaheer Khan
- Prithvi Shaw
- Shreyas Iyer
- Shardul Thakur
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Wasim Jaffer
- Vinod Kambli
Mumbai has historically contributed 6–7 players regularly to the Indian playing XI, showcasing the association’s exceptional talent development capabilities.
How To Stay Updated About MCA Activities
The Mumbai Cricket Association actively shares updates through its official website, social media channels, newsletters, and WhatsApp groups.
They provide tournament info, player news, and match highlights via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
Official social media handles of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA):
- Instagram: @mumbaicricketofficial
- Twitter (X): @MumbaiCricAssoc
- Facebook: Mumbai Cricket Association Official
- YouTube: Mumbai Cricket Association
MCA also partners with local media to ensure wide coverage, keeping players, fans, and clubs informed on trials, selections, and cricket developments across Mumbai.
Related Read:
Conclusion: With 42 Ranji Trophy wins and many international stars, MCA is India’s top cricket association!
Mumbai Cricket Association isn’t just another Normal association. It’s the heartbeat of cricket in Mumbai and a key player in Indian cricket. MCA has a strong history of success and developing top players for India.
Here, dreams come to life. Their strong coaching and selection systems make sure talent gets the right guidance.
MCA affects Mumbai cricket in a big way. It fuels the passion for the game, whether you’re a young player or a dedicated fan.
FAQs
The Apex Council is the supreme governing body of the BCCI, consisting of office bearers from state cricket associations, including MCA representatives.
Yes, the Mumbai Cricket Association is a permanent member of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is the largest cricket ground owned by a cricket association in India.
Wankhede Stadium is owned and managed by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).
Yes, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is fully governed and managed by the BCCI.
Ajinkya Naik is the President of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) as of 2025.
