Arjun Tendulkar says he is approaching his next phase with a refreshingly grounded mindset, despite the inevitable attention that comes with being Sachin Tendulkar’s son. The 26-year-old all-rounder is set to begin a new chapter with Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2026, and he believes the best way to handle the spotlight is to keep life—on and off the field—simple.
New beginnings with Lucknow Super Giants
Speaking in a candid conversation with podcaster Shubhankar Mishra, Tendulkar opened up about how his move to LSG is more than just a change of teams—it’s an opportunity to start anew while balancing expectations that follow his surname.
He also addressed the pressure that often comes with public scrutiny, saying he remains largely unaffected even when criticism and trolling show up online. When asked whether such negativity impacts him, he replied plainly: “No, I’m not.”
Support at home and clarity about his wedding
Arjun shared a rare glimpse into his personal life by talking about his newly-wed wife, Saaniya Chandhok. He described her as someone who has offered steady support without adding noise to his cricketing decisions.
- He said she “never said anything” and has been “supportive.”
- Arjun dismissed the idea that she asked him to delay joining his team, stating there was no such directive involved.
A life away from cricket—simple, quiet, and selective
While cricket remains central to his job, Tendulkar suggested his day-to-day routine is far from glamorous. He highlighted how he spends time away from the sport in a way that helps him stay grounded.
- He has five dogs in Goa and spends time playing with them.
- He said he does not really have “cricketer friends,” explaining that most of his friends do not play cricket.
That preference, he implied, keeps his circle broader than the typical cricket ecosystem—something he appears to value as he prepares for the challenge ahead.
Role competition, inspirations, and carving his own identity
On the field, Arjun acknowledged that the road won’t be easy. After limited opportunities with Mumbai Indians, he now faces intense competition at Lucknow Super Giants for a place in the playing XI.
He also spoke about inspiration and family influence, mentioning Yuvraj Singh alongside his father. In a light moment, he joked about the difference in their roles: “He was a spinner; I am a pacer.”
As the all-rounder begins this new chapter in IPL 2026, the key question will be whether he can establish his own identity and deliver consistent performances—stepping out of the shadow of a legendary legacy while meeting the demands of top-level T20 cricket.
