HCA Appoints A.T. Rayudu as Cricket Ops Head, Unveils ACU and Grassroots Push
HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) on May 5 appointed former cricketer A.T. Rayudu as Head of Cricket Operations, assigning him responsibility for overseeing cricketing activities, development programmes and overall operational efficiency.
Rayudu said he accepted the role without hesitation. “Members of the HCA leadership approached me with a clear intent, and I readily agreed. I am ready to serve Hyderabad cricket,” he said. He also noted that he has played across the city since his school days, which gives him a deep connection with the local cricketing ecosystem.
Meanwhile, HCA secretary M. Jeevan Reddy clarified that Rayudu will serve in the role without remuneration.
Anti-corruption unit to ensure integrity
In a significant step, the HCA also set up an Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) to safeguard integrity in cricketing activities. Retired Principal District and Sessions Judge Vijender Pingle will chair the four-member committee.
The ACU will coordinate closely with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) framework. In addition, it will conduct awareness sessions for players, officials and support staff to prevent malpractice.
To strengthen transparency, the association has launched a dedicated email ID — hcagrievance@gmail.com — for reporting grievances related to cricket and corruption. Jeevan Reddy assured that officials will acknowledge all complaints promptly and resolve them within a fixed timeframe while maintaining strict confidentiality.
Furthermore, Rayudu stressed a zero-tolerance approach. “Anyone found guilty—whether a player, parent, selector or umpire—will be reported to the ACU and the BCCI and subsequently blacklisted,” he said.
He also alleged the existence of selection-related rackets. “Some individuals demand money for selections. We will not tolerate such practices. Moreover, we will not consider anyone under scrutiny until the ACU completes its process,” he added.
League season from May 12; focus on grassroots
Looking ahead, HCA president Amarnath announced that the 2026–27 league season will begin on May 12. The season will feature ‘A’ and ‘B’ division championships along with T20 formats.
At the same time, Rayudu emphasised merit-based selections. He said the association will conduct open trials across age groups to identify fresh talent, especially players who are not part of HCA leagues. “I myself came through the open trials system,” he noted.
Additionally, the HCA will introduce a software-based system to randomly allocate umpires and scorers. The system will also generate performance reports for selectors and officials, thereby improving accountability.
In another key move, officials confirmed that the association will soon constitute a Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) committee in line with the POSH Act, 2013. This mechanism will ensure a safe environment while protecting confidentiality and preventing retaliation.
Finally, the HCA plans to revamp its academy with structured age-group programmes, qualified coaches, modern training equipment and regular assessments.
Jeevan Reddy added that the association is working to expand infrastructure in districts. “We already have new stadiums in Mahbubnagar and Karimnagar, along with a new ground in Nizamabad. Moreover, we are in talks with the government to acquire land in other districts,” he said.
