Ranji Trophy: Hyderabad begins campaign with high hopes

Not much stands out at first glance in Hyderabad’s squad for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy campaign. Packed with seasoned campaigners, it bolsters the usual expectation from this side to make the knockouts, where stronger opponents usually call curtains on its bid.

However, this time, there have been quite a few behind-the-scenes changes that might help prolong its campaign.

The Cricket Operations Committee, led by Ambati Rayudu, and the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) conducted a slew of selection matches and a Super League to help players find their rhythm long before the first ball is bowled. A fielding and fitness camp was held right after the inaugural edition of TG20, necessary given the shocking number of dropped catches last season.

Mohammed Siraj’s availability from the get-go should bode well, as does Wasim Jaffer’s addition as mentor — a popular appointment among the players who’ve spent the last few weeks picking the domestic giant’s brains.

The pitches at the Gymkhana Ground, the home venue for Hyderabad this season, have also been tuned to produce more results, after a spate of draws at home in the recent past.

“We’re now looking at a result-oriented pitch. A lot of homework has been done, and credit should go to HCA. Now it’s up to the players to execute our plans,” Hyderabad head coach Anirudh Singh told The Hindu.

Hyderabad’s first opponent, Tripura, had its pre-season plans slightly disrupted by rain in Agartala. That prompted head coach Satrajit Lahiri to bring the team to the City of Pearls a week early, so that the players can find rhythm by the time action gets underway in the opening round on Sunday.

Hanuma Vihari’s presence brings in a shot of experience that the management hopes will rub off on the players as the State seeks to shed its Ranji underdog tag.