India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has been appointed captain of the Hyderabad side for their remaining Ranji Trophy league matches this season. The 31-year-old will take charge later this month, marking his first stint as skipper of the domestic team.
Siraj steps into the leadership role as Hyderabad prepare for two crucial home fixtures in Elite Group D. The team is currently placed fourth on the points table and remains in contention following a mixed campaign so far.
Key Fixtures Ahead
Hyderabad will host Mumbai from January 22 before concluding their league phase against Chhattisgarh starting January 29. Both matches will be played at home and are expected to be crucial in determining the group standings.
Former captain Rahul Singh has been retained as vice-captain, ensuring continuity within the leadership group as the side heads into the business end of the competition.
Return to Domestic Action
The upcoming fixture against Mumbai will also mark Siraj’s first Ranji Trophy appearance of the season. The pacer had been unavailable for Hyderabad earlier due to international commitments and is currently part of India’s ODI squad, featuring in the ongoing series in Rajkot.
Despite limited recent domestic appearances, Siraj brings considerable experience to the role. He has represented Hyderabad in 19 first-class matches, collecting 77 wickets at an impressive average, while his overall first-class tally stands at 309 wickets across 88 matches.
Selection Committee’s View
The leadership change was confirmed by the selection panel on Wednesday. Along with Siraj’s appointment, the committee also added Aman Rao Perala to the squad after his consistent performances in age-group cricket and a notable double century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Explaining the decision, the selectors expressed confidence in Siraj’s competitive mindset and leadership qualities, believing his intensity and drive would have a positive influence on the squad during the decisive phase of the season.
Hyderabad Squad
Md Siraj (Captain), G Rahul Singh (Vice Captain), CV Milind, Tanay Thyagarajan, K Rohit Rayudu, K Himateja, A Varun Goud, M Abhirath Reddy, Rahul Radesh (Wicketkeeper), Aman Rao Perala, CTL Rakshann Readdi, N Nitin Sai Yadav, Kanala Nitesh Reddy, Sai Pragnay Reddy (Wicketkeeper), B Punnaiah
Standby Players
Mickil Jaiswal, A Avanish Rao (Wicketkeeper), Kartikeya Kak, Pranav Varma, P Nitish Reddy
With Siraj at the helm, Hyderabad will hope to harness his experience and competitive edge as they aim for a strong finish to their Ranji Trophy campaign.
