Special Correspondent
What many in Hyderabad’s cricketing circles had quietly predicted now appears to have unfolded almost exactly along expected lines. The intense political pressure allegedly mounted behind the scenes to ensure the installation of a preferred candidate as Secretary of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) seems to have finally prevailed, with Jeevan Reddy now set to assume the powerful post unopposed. Reddy currently serves as Vice-President of MSN Pharma.
According to reliable information gathered by this e-paper, all other contestants who had filed nominations for the influential Secretary’s post have withdrawn from the race, effectively clearing the path for Jeevan Reddy. Among those who stepped aside were not only a candidate believed to be backed by a senior minister but also a former cricketer who has long been regarded as a power broker within HCA’s turbulent politics.
While the tenure of the incoming office-bearer will only last a few months—essentially completing the remainder of the previous elected body’s term—those familiar with HCA’s internal dynamics know that power, however brief, is still power.
For now, it may be premature to rush to judgement on the development. Much will depend on how the present state government chooses to engage with the association. If the government genuinely intends to strengthen cricketing infrastructure in Telangana—by extending the lease period of the Uppal stadium land and possibly allotting 10 to 15 acres of land in other developed districts for new stadiums—such cooperation could ultimately benefit the sport.
However, while the Secretary’s post appears virtually settled, the election for the Treasurer’s position is shaping up to be a far more intriguing contest, with none of the candidates withdrawing their nominations so far.
Background of Political Interest
The developments cannot be viewed in isolation. Insiders point out that ever since the state government—though not officially, but discreetly through a senior minister believed to be closely associated with the corridors of power—began taking interest in HCA affairs, efforts were underway to influence the administrative structure of the association.
Significantly, the individual who had narrowly lost the President’s post earlier by just a single vote had chosen not to challenge the result or seek a re-poll, for reasons best known to him. Subsequently, that post fell vacant after the suspension and removal of the incumbent, creating yet another phase of instability within the association.
The Bhaskar Twist
One of the more interesting turns in the current episode involves Bhaskar, a long-time dissenter in HCA politics who has repeatedly contested elections and consistently raised concerns about irregularities within the association.
Sources indicate that Bhaskar ultimately decided to withdraw from the race after realising that his eligibility to hold office will expire in about three months due to the association’s age restrictions.
However, those closely tracking the developments claim his withdrawal came after persuasion and assurances from influential quarters. Bhaskar—who also happens to be related to a senior Congress leader—was reportedly assured that he would be entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing cricketing activities within the association.
That assurance, sources claim, was conveyed through a WhatsApp message and is said to have come directly from Jeevan Reddy, reportedly supported by Bhaskar’s own brother-in-law.
How such an informal understanding will work in practice once the elections conclude remains to be seen.
For the ongoing season, however, the HCA still has significant domestic commitments to complete, including one-day league matches, three-day fixtures and T20 tournaments. Bhaskar is believed to be confident that even if his role lasts only six to eight months, he could attempt to implement measures to improve cricket administration on the ground.
Some of his close associates claim he has already prepared a series of initiatives aimed at restoring discipline and transparency in the conduct of tournaments, though they declined to reveal details at this stage.
Treasurer’s Contest Heats Up
Meanwhile, the Treasurer’s post has now become the focal point of the elections, largely because the office holds crucial financial authority, including the power to sign cheques and oversee monetary transactions.
If sources are to be believed, the minister-backed candidate remains firmly in the race and is expected to face a challenge from another nominee who enjoys the support of a former Test cricketer. Two independents are also contesting.
Among them is Agam Rao, who reportedly felt sidelined by the minister’s camp and decided to enter the fray independently.
The other independent candidate, Hari Narayan, a coach and physical director at a private college, is said to be banking on the support of a handful of club secretaries known for voting according to their conscience rather than political pressure or money lures.
The Larger Question
Yet the central question remains far bigger than the outcome of individual posts.
Will political intervention in the affairs of the Hyderabad Cricket Association help restore credibility to an institution whose reputation has been repeatedly battered by administrative controversies? Or will it simply reinforce the perception that cricket administration has become a playground for power brokers and political interests?
For many long-time followers of Hyderabad cricket, the real test now lies in how Jeevan Reddy—who does not come from a traditional cricketing background—chooses to run the association and whether he can restore the confidence of players, clubs and the cricket-loving public.
Some observers remain cautiously hopeful. If the new leadership can ensure extension of the stadium land lease for another 15 to 20 years and secure government land in major districts to develop new cricket infrastructure, it could mark a meaningful step forward.
But until concrete actions follow words, scepticism will remain.
One thing, however, is certain.
This e-paper will continue to remain a vigilant watchdog, fearlessly highlighting irregularities, questioning questionable decisions and standing firmly with those who believe Hyderabad cricket deserves transparent and accountable administration.
The fight for the soul of Hyderabad cricket is far from over.
This e-paper will continue to remain a vigilant watchdog,
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