HCA Appoints Ambati Rayudu As Head Of Cricket Operations

Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu was on Tuesday appointed as the Head of Cricket Operations of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), in a move aimed at strengthening the state body’s cricketing structure and administration.

The 40-year-old, a former Hyderabad captain, will assume charge with immediate effect for an initial three-year term , following his appointment by Justice P Naveen Rao (SMC), HCA Secretary M Jeevan Reddy, and the apex council.

Announcing the development of X, Rayudu expressed happiness at taking up the role and underlined his intent to improve the system. “It is a great opportunity to clean up a few things,” said the former middle-order batter, who represented India in 58 ODIs and six T20Is .

Rayudu’s appointment is seen as significant given his strong local connect , having risen through Hyderabad’s cricketing ranks, along with his recent international and IPL experience , which is expected to bring contemporary insights into player development and professional standards.

However, his appointment also comes against the backdrop of his past criticism of IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad, prompting some discussion in cricketing circles. Observers note that while such remarks were related to franchise cricket, his current role with the HCA pertains to state-level administration and grassroots development , which operates independently of IPL team dynamics.

Having retired from competitive cricket not long ago, Rayudu remains aligned with the modern demands of the game , a factor that could help bridge the gap between domestic structures and elite-level expectations.

He also expressed optimism about the region’s talent pool. “I am more excited to see the immense cricketing talent in Hyderabad and Telangana flourish and produce more players to represent the country,” he said.

The HCA, which has faced administrative challenges in recent years, appears to be banking on Rayudu’s transition from player to administrator to streamline operations and enhance talent pathways .