Ambati Rayudu Appointed as Director of Cricket Operations by Hyderabad Cricket Association

The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has appointed former India batter Ambati Rayudu as its new Director of Cricket Operations. The decision was taken by the HCA’s Apex Council.

In his new role, Rayudu will look after all cricket activities, development programs, and make sure things run smoothly within the HCA. The association said his experience as an international cricketer will help inspire the next generation of Hyderabad players.

I am very happy to announce that I have been appointed as the Head of cricketing operations for HCA. by Justice P Naveen Rao(SMC) , M Jeevan reddy (Secretary HCA) and the apex council. It is a great opportunity to clean up a few things but I am more excited to see the immense…

— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) May 5, 2026

Rayudu, who played 55 ODIs and six T20Is for India, made it clear that players’ welfare will be his top focus. “I’m a firm believer that cricket should be separated from administration and all other administrative matters. Cricket should be run with players in mind,” he said. “It is my job to look after players’ welfare and to make Hyderabad what it truly deserves to be – a powerhouse of Indian domestic cricket.”

At the press conference where the announcement was made, Rayudu spoke strongly about keeping the game clean. “My first priorities after joining here are corruption-free cricket and zero tolerance towards corruption,” he said. He warned that anyone found guilty – whether a player, parent, selector or umpire – will be reported to the anti corruption unit and the BCCI. “No exceptions,” he added.

Rayudu also talked about bringing a contract system for players. This is something the Mumbai Cricket Association has already started, and he wants Hyderabad to follow the same path.

“I am here to serve cricket. I am here to serve our players, most importantly. And I am here to take Hyderabad cricket to where it truly belongs,” the 40-year-old former cricketer said.

                                               

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