Ambati Rayudu Inspects Alugunur Cricket Facility, Backs HCA Academy in Karimnagar

Former India cricketer and Head of the Hyderabad Cricket Association Cricket Operations Committee, Ambati Rayudu, visited the Velchala Jagapathi Rao Memorial Cricket Ground & Academy at Alugunur in Karimnagar on Sunday, backing plans to set up an HCA cricket academy at the venue.

Rayudu was joined by T. Sheshnarayan, Chairman of the District Cricket Infrastructure Development Committee and former HCA Secretary, and Sunitha Anand, Head of Women’s Cricket Development at HCA. Karimnagar District Cricket Association President V. Agam Rao briefed the delegation on the existing infrastructure, including turf wickets, practice nets, and KDCA initiatives to develop cricket in the district.

During the visit, the HCA delegation inspected the ground, turf pitches, and practice nets to discuss establishing the proposed academy. Rayudu praised the high standard of the facilities and noted that the ground is suitable for hosting BCCI-level tournaments as well as TG20 League matches. He also stated that with further facility upgrades, Karimnagar could become an important venue for competitive cricket, assuring that the HCA plans to regularly conduct league matches at the ground.

Sheshnarayan confirmed that developing district-level cricket infrastructure is a top priority and expressed satisfaction that the ground is prepared for BCCI-level matches. Rao stated that the KDCA is ready to provide additional facilities recommended by the HCA.

Rayudu also interacted with KDCA Under-16 boys and more than 40 women cricketers attending the HCA Women’s Open Selection Trials at the venue. Anand interacted with the female players and reviewed the facilities to support women’s cricket development.

The proposed academy aims to offer structured coaching, training facilities, and player development pathways for boys, girls, men, and women from Karimnagar and neighbouring districts in North Telangana.