Ambati Rayudu Takes Charge as HCA Head of Cricket Operations, Vows to Clean Up System

Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu has been appointed as the Head of Cricket Operations for the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), marking a significant administrative shift aimed at revitalising cricket in the region. Taking charge on Tuesday, Rayudu emphasised his commitment to tackling long-standing issues, particularly corruption, which has plagued the association for years.

Announcing his appointment on social media, Rayudu expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to contribute to the growth of cricket in Hyderabad and the broader Telangana region. He highlighted his eagerness to nurture local talent and create pathways for players to represent the country at the highest level.

Rayudu made it clear that addressing corruption within the HCA would be his top priority. He outlined plans to introduce structural reforms, including the implementation of a player contract system similar to the one recently adopted by the Mumbai Cricket Association. Such a system, he said, would bring greater transparency and professionalism to cricket administration in the state.

In addition, Rayudu revealed his intention to modernise operations by incorporating automation and reducing human interference in decision-making processes. These measures are expected to streamline functioning and ensure fairness in selections and administration.

Looking ahead, the former international batter also proposed the establishment of a state-of-the-art centre of excellence, drawing inspiration from the renowned facility in Bengaluru. The centre would aim to provide world-class training infrastructure and support systems for aspiring cricketers in the region.

Rayudu, who began his domestic career in Hyderabad and rose through the ranks with notable performances in age-group cricket and at the Under-19 level, reiterated that his focus would remain firmly on cricketing development. He stated that administrative politics would not distract him from his primary objective of improving player welfare and strengthening grassroots systems.

His appointment is particularly noteworthy given his past differences with the HCA. Rayudu had previously shifted to the Andhra Cricket Association following a fallout with the association’s earlier administration, which included disputes involving senior officials such as Shivlal Yadav.

Now returning in an official leadership role, Rayudu’s appointment is widely seen as an effort by the current HCA leadership to restore credibility and enhance the overall standard of cricket in the state. With a clear reform agenda and a strong connection to Hyderabad’s cricketing ecosystem, his tenure will be closely watched by players, administrators, and fans alike.