Hyderabad: Buoyed by the overwhelming response to the open selections on Monday, the Hyderabad Cricket Association has decided to extend the trials through the week.
The Gymkhana ground in Secunderabad was abuzz as more than 300 players reported for the selections in an attempt to make their way into the two-day league teams that the HCA plans to field besides the regular ones. “There is no cap on the number. If there are 150 good players, we will make 10 teams out of them,” HCA secretary T. Shesh Narayan said.
“Each player will be given a proper and fair opportunity to showcase his skills.
The process will continue during the course of this week and those who want to be considered for selection can report to the selectors,” Shesh promised.
The task of picking players has been entrusted exclusively to the HCA selectors. “There is no involvement of members or coaches here,” Shesh said.
Also, “those from the lower income strata, who cannot afford costly gear, will be kitted at the HCA’s expense,” Shesh said, adding “there was a boy who was bowling so well today, even in shoes with rubber soles. I referred him to a sports shop to collect a new pair of spikes.”
“It is heart-warming to see the expectation, hope and aspiration in the eyes of these youngsters. Such enthusiasm,” Shesh said.
Shesh also cautioned parents against falling prey to agents and paying money to secure places for their wards in League teams of registered clubs since the HCA is providing an opportunity directly to all genuine players to play in the state leagues.
