Despite years of turmoil, corruption allegations, nepotism, and court battles surrounding the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), there are encouraging signs emerging from the senior team. Riding on the momentum of their recent Butchi Babu Trophy success, the Hyderabad batsmen have shown remarkable resilience and consistency.
As a former batter, I have no hesitation in giving full credit to the current lineup. Their performance has been commendable, particularly in chasing challenging totals. Last year’s Bucchi Babu Trophy—though later mishandled by HCA—and this year’s performances, including the Ranji Trophy match against Delhi, demonstrate a team willing to fight under pressure. Chasing 400-plus scores consistently is no small feat and offers hope for a brighter future.
However, this optimism is tempered by the performance of the bowlers. Frankly, they have yet to live up to expectations or their potential. Improvement is essential if Hyderabad is to achieve consistent success at higher levels. Tanmay Aggarwal, whom I have followed since he was nine, has shown promise, and it is heartening to see him deliver on that early potential. But the spin department, in particular, could take a leaf out of the books of legendary Hyderabad spinners like Venkatapathi Raju, Shivlal Yadav, and Kawaljit Singh. Those players could turn the ball sharply, deceive settled batsmen, and take wickets consistently—a quality our current spinners must cultivate.
Recalling an incident from my playing days underscores this point. In a match against Delhi, we were bowled out for 235. Delhi were comfortably placed at 110 for one. It was then that ML Jaisimha, our flamboyant senior, decided to take matters into his own hands. On a pitch offering little assistance, he focused, talked himself through the problem, and began turning the ball prodigiously. By the end, Delhi were bowled out, leaving us with a slender first-innings lead of six runs. The lesson is clear: confidence, focus, and self-belief can transform a match, even on an unhelpful track.
For Hyderabad’s current spinners, developing that same mindset—believing they can make the ball turn and take wickets—is vital. For instance, one of the present spinners were consistent and good but of late, seen struggling to maintain that consistency to strike at the stumps. While his approach is sound, a small adjustment—aligning his left leg slightly differently—could improve his delivery and shoulder rotation, enhancing effectiveness. These are minor course corrections, but they could make a significant difference in performance.
In conclusion, Hyderabad cricket is showing glimpses of revival. The batsmen have stepped up admirably, and the team has demonstrated grit under pressure. Now, it is time for the bowlers, particularly the spinners, to join the party. With focus, belief, and a willingness to refine their craft, Hyderabad could reclaim its past glory and emerge as a formidable force once again.
