MS Shanker
In the previous segment, we explored insights from former Hyderabad Ranji star Jyothi Prasad, who emphasized the need for a stronger league structure to identify and nurture talent. Echoing similar sentiments, former Indian cricketer, Hyderabad team captain, and ex-Director and Chief Coach of the Cricket Academy, MV Narasimha Rao, shares his vision for revitalizing cricket in Hyderabad.
Before delving into his strategies, it’s worth revisiting Rao’s remarkable cricketing journey, which had its fair share of ups and downs. Whether due to favouritism or nepotism, he too wasn’t spared from selection uncertainties. Though he was picked to play for India against the West Indies in 1978–79, he was dropped after just two Tests. He was recalled for the 1979-80 series against Kim Hughes’ Australian team but was again discarded after two Tests.
In the fifth Test against Australia at Eden Gardens, Rao played a crucial role in saving India from defeat. Chasing 247 on the final day, India was struggling at 123/4, with stalwarts like Gavaskar, Vengsarkar, Vishwanath, and Chetan Chauhan back in the pavilion. Rao’s gritty partnership with Yashpal Sharma, who remained unbeaten on 85, helped India draw the match at 200/4. That turned out to be Rao’s last Test. An agile close-in fielder, he finished with eight catches in his brief international career.
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In first-class cricket, he amassed 4,124 runs at an average of 47.40 and took 218 wickets at 24.20.
Restructuring the League System
To revive Hyderabad’s cricketing fortunes, Rao stresses the need for a well-structured league system that serves as a feeder for the Ranji, U23, and U19 teams. He proposes an extended league season from June to March, with the following structure:
- Premier League (15 teams): Each team plays a full schedule, including 50-over matches, three-day knockout tournaments, and T20 competitions. The bottom two teams are relegated to Division One.
- Division One (20 teams): Teams play 19 league matches along with three-day and T20 knockout tournaments. The bottom two teams drop to Division Two.
- Division Two and Beyond: Similar formats apply to Division Three (20 teams), Division Four, and lower divisions, ensuring competitive cricket at all levels.
This pyramid system guarantees clear promotion and relegation pathways, fostering competition and player growth.
Strengthening University and School Cricket
Rao also emphasizes the importance of grassroots development through dedicated tournaments:
- University Cricket: A 50-over knockout tournament to nurture budding talent.
- School Cricket: A 40-over knockout competition to instil early competitive spirit.
These events provide young cricketers ample opportunities to showcase their skills and transition to higher levels.
Academy and Player Development
A key element of Rao’s plan is overhauling the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) Academy. He proposes operating it from May to March, with a rigorous selection process identifying 25 probable’s each for the Ranji, U23, and U19 teams. While intensive, he believes this schedule mirrors Hyderabad’s rich cricketing culture of the past when weekend and holiday matches drew large crowds.
Infrastructure and Execution
Hyderabad has the infrastructure to support this extensive cricketing calendar. With strategic planning and execution, the city can reclaim its lost cricketing glory. Rao’s proposed system ensures continuous talent identification, structured development, and high-quality competition at every level. If implemented effectively, Hyderabad can once again emerge as a powerhouse in Indian domestic cricket. (To be concluded)
