The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has officially unveiled its 15-member squad named to participate in the opening three matches of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season. Signaling a bold strategic shift towards young leadership, HCA has appointed star left-hander Tilak Verma As captain, with reliable all-rounder Rahul Singh Named his deputy.
The announcement sets the stage for Hyderabad’s campaign, which will begin with three challenging fixtures against Delhi, Puducherry and Himachal Pradesh. The decision to hand the captaincy to young Verma underlines HCA’s confidence in his abilities to guide the team through India’s premier first-class competition, as a match-winner and a natural leader.
Tilak Verma’s rise: From Asia Cup stardom to red-ball leader
Tilak’s promotion to the position comes due to his recent impressive form, culminating in decisive performances on the international stage. Verma recently became the subject of widespread praise for his match-winning innings against arch-rivals Pakistan asia cup 2025 finalThat crucial innings not only showcased his exceptional talent and technique, but also a keen sense of patience and the ability to handle pressure – qualities that are vital when leading a team in a tough four-day format.
HCA’s move is a clear indication of a long-term approach to inculcating a winning culture in the Ranji Trophy team by prioritizing players who are currently in peak form and have significant international experience. Verma’s leadership will be crucial in establishing an aggressive and competitive environment from the very first match.
Squad composition: A mix of experience and emerging talent
The 15-member squad selected by the HCA selectors has a balanced mix of established Ranji veterans and exciting young prospects. Veterans like Tanmay Agarwal and CV Milind are expected to provide the backbone to the team by providing strength in batting and bowling respectively.
Also read: Maharashtra announces squad for Ranji Trophy 2025-26; Prithvi Shaw, Jalaj Saxena included
The squad includes two wicketkeepers, Ali Kachi Diamond and Rahul Radesh, providing flexibility in selection depending on match circumstances. The key batting positions will also be filled with players like Himateja and Rohit Rayudu. In the bowling department, the spin options are led by Tanay Thiagarajan, while Punnaiah and Aniketh Reddy provide the required pace and seam movement. Youngsters M. Abhiratha Reddy and Sarnu Nishanth have also earned their place, with Hyderabad focussing on nurturing the next generation of cricket talent.
15-member Hyderabad team and standby players
15-man squad for the first three Ranji Trophy matches:
- Captain: Tilak Verma
- vice captain: Rahul Singh
Player: CV Milind, Tanmay Agarwal, M. Abhirath Reddy, Himteja, Varun Goud, Tanay Thiagarajan, Rohit Rayudu, Sarnu Nishant, Punnaiah, Aniket Reddy, Karthikeya Kak, Ali Kachi Diamond (wk), Rahul Radesh (wk).
Stan by: P. Nitish Reddy, Sai Pragnaya Reddy, Rakshan Reddy, Nitesh Kanala, Mikhil Jaiswal
