In a notable development ahead of the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) elections scheduled for February 15, 2026, Ajit Lele, son of the late J.Y. Lele—a former secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)—has publicly endorsed the Revival Group. This comes as the BCA prepares for a keenly contested election involving multiple factions in Vadodara’s cricket administration landscape.
Ajit Lele has been closely associated with BCA affairs for years, having previously served as its secretary. He was long perceived as aligned with the rival Royal Group due to past affiliations, including his election to the secretary position in earlier terms amid cross-group arrangements that involved Royal Group members. However, Lele has now broken his silence with a video statement, clearly declaring his support for the Revival Group. In the statement, he highlighted his alignment with the group’s vision for improving cricket infrastructure and overall development in Baroda, putting to rest earlier perceptions of his loyalties.
The announcement has created ripples in BCA circles, particularly as it counters indirect claims from figures linked to the Royal Satyamev faction—a key player in the current electoral dynamics. Mr. Sanjay Patel, a former BCCI secretary and prominent voice in Baroda cricket, along with Royal Satyamev representatives, had suggested Lele’s potential support for their side through remarks like “We will inform him soon, but his friends are here with us.” This implied a broader network of backing that included Lele and briefly shaped narratives around alliances. Lele’s video statement has directly contradicted and debunked such suggestions as misinformation, allowing him to clarify his position and underscore the risks of misleading claims in the cricketing community.
Lele’s endorsement is likely to strengthen the Revival Group, led by current BCA President Pranav Amin , who has held leadership since earlier terms and continues to focus on governance and progress amid the ongoing contest.
The Royal Satyamev Jayate Group has been actively seeking validation through public support from prominent first-class cricketers associated with Baroda. Despite efforts throughout the day to secure such endorsements from alumni and players, while only former Indian wicketkeeper Nayan Mongia came forward openly, providing his signature on Dr. Darshan Banker’s nomination form. Dr. Banker, a respected cardiologist, is contesting as a candidate backed by the Satyamev Jayate Group (now allied with Royal elements) and is positioned as a challenger in the presidential race. No other notable cricketers have publicly declared support for Royal Satyamev Jayate, leaving the group to depend primarily on its internal networks and grassroots mobilization.