Hyderabad begins Ranji Trophy campaign with high hopes against Delhi

Hyderabad begins its Ranji Trophy campaign against Delhi with high hopes. Led by Tilak Varma, fresh from the Asia Cup, the team is confident after winning the Buchi Babu tournament. Hyderabad seeks improvement this season after a tough previous year

Hyderabad: Fresh season, new hopes and a familiar target — to win the Ranji Trophy!

For a team that last won the prestigious national championship back in 1987, Hyderabad begins this season’s campaign against the Ayush Badoni-led Delhi high on confidence at the NexGen Cricket Ground near Hakimpet here on Wednesday.

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Head coach D.B. Ravi Teja, who guided the team to victory in the recent All India Buchi Babu Invitation Cricket Tournament, might have already gauged the strengths and weaknesses of his squad.

Hyderabad, like Delhi, had a disappointing outing last season, winning only two of seven games. This season, they will be aiming for a better performance.

Tilak Varma, fresh from his stunning batting display in the Asia Cup final against Pakistan, is expected to lead from the front in the season opener before he heads back for national duty.

In batting, much will depend on the consistent Tanmay Agarwal, whose 934 runs last season were the third highest in the country. Along with him, experienced players like Rohit Rayudu, K. Himateja, Abhirath Reddy, vice-captain G. Rahul Singh, and Rahul Radesh will play crucial roles.

The bowling attack has a lot of variety, with left-arm pacer Chama Milind leading the charge. The tall S. Nishanth and Kartikeya Kak will also look to make their mark when given the opportunity. In spin, the left-arm duo of G. Aniketh Reddy (29 wickets last season) and Nitin Sai Yadav (who replaces the injured Tanay Thyagarajan, who took 35 wickets last season) will be key players.

Hyderabad coach Ravi Teja said the pitch looked promising and could aid spinners on the third and fourth day, making it an exciting contest, especially with Delhi being an experienced side.

“The big boost for us is Tilak Varma leading the team. The mood is upbeat after the Buchi Babu win. Importantly, everyone knows their role in the team,” said Ravi Teja.

On the other hand, Priyansh Arya, the young batting sensation who stole the spotlight while playing for Punjab Kings in the last IPL, could well be the star attraction. However, the team will look for a collective effort to ensure a winning start, given the blend of experience and youthful exuberance in the line-up.