Our Correspondent
Hyderabad: Signalling what many in cricketing circles are describing as a fresh beginning for Hyderabad cricket, the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) on Monday announced its new Senior and Junior Selection Committees for the 2026–27 season, with several new faces finding place in the panels.
The announcement was made by HCA Secretary M. Jeevan Reddy in the presence of former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu, who was recently appointed as Director of Cricket Affairs. The move is being viewed as one of the first major administrative steps under the new HCA leadership aimed at bringing greater credibility and professionalism into the system.
Interestingly, the new committees comprise a mix of former cricketers and fresh names, indicating a conscious attempt by the HCA administration to usher in a more transparent and merit-oriented selection process. The development has generated considerable interest among Hyderabad cricket followers, particularly in the backdrop of long-standing criticism over alleged favouritism and lack of transparency in selections in previous years.
Sources within cricketing circles said the new leadership appeared keen on restoring confidence among players and stakeholders by introducing individuals believed to possess both cricketing experience and integrity. Many observers also noted that the involvement of Ambati Rayudu in shaping the cricketing structure of the association could bring valuable professional insight to Hyderabad cricket administration.
Rayudu, a former India international who represented Hyderabad before moving to Mumbai earlier in his career, has often spoken about the need for merit-based opportunities for young cricketers. His appointment as Director of Cricket Affairs had itself attracted attention across cricketing circles, with many seeing it as an attempt by the HCA to reconnect with experienced cricketing professionals.
The newly constituted committees will be responsible for selecting teams across all HCA-represented tournaments and age-group competitions during the upcoming domestic season.
Senior Selection Committee (2026–27)
- P. Akshath Reddy – Chairman
- T. Suman
- Mehdi Hasan
- T. Pavan Kumar
- Inder Shekar Reddy
Junior Selection Committee (2026–27)
- Akash Bhandari – Chairman
- P. Ramesh Kumar
- Shoaib
- Sarvesh Kumar
- Timothy Kumar
Speaking on the occasion, HCA Secretary M. Jeevan Reddy said the association was committed to ensuring fairness and professionalism in the selection process.
“We are confident that the experience and integrity of the appointed members will ensure a fair, transparent, and merit-based selection process. The HCA remains committed to nurturing talent and strengthening cricket across all levels in the region,” he said.
Ambati Rayudu too expressed confidence in the newly appointed panels and emphasised the importance of experienced cricketers contributing to Hyderabad cricket.
“It’s heartening to see a strong mix of experienced former cricketers on these committees. Their understanding of the game will be key in identifying and backing the right talent for Hyderabad cricket. I wish both panels the very best for the season ahead,” Rayudu said.
The announcement assumes significance at a time when Hyderabad cricket is witnessing renewed calls for reforms and stronger systems to promote grassroots talent. Cricket followers and stakeholders believe that consistent and transparent selections will play a major role in rebuilding the competitive strength of Hyderabad teams across formats and age groups.
The HCA also extended its congratulations to all the committee members and wished them success in their tenure for the forthcoming domestic season.
