TG20 provides a platform for young players to showcase their talent, says Aces’ CV Milind

Anticipation is building ahead of the inaugural edition of the Hyderabad Cricket Association’s TG20, with all eight franchise captains coming together for a pre-season press conference on the eve of the tournament’s opening match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Uppal, on Saturday evening.

Representing their respective franchises were Tanay Thyagarajan (Ranga Reddy Risers), Ravi Teja (Medak Falcons), Pragnay Reddy (Palamuru Strikers), CV Milind (Anvita Khammam Aces), Rahul Buddhi (Anurag Nalgonda Knights), Abhirath Reddy (Hyderabad e-Champions), Tanmay Agarwal (EIPL & Eleve Karimnagar Diamonds) and Aman Rao Perala (Warangal Warriors).

HCA’s TG20 set for a spectacular opening at RGICS on June 21; official anthem unveiled

The captains unanimously welcomed the launch of the TG20, describing it as a landmark moment for cricket in Telangana and a significant platform for the next generation of players from the region to showcase their talent.

Speaking on the impact of the league, Tanmay Agarwal, captain of EIPL & Eleve Karimnagar Diamonds, said: “Ultimately, cricket in Hyderabad and Telangana should grow, and this is one of the ways it can grow. In our team, there are boys who are just 17 years old. To get exposure against quality opposition, on quality grounds and under lights, will make a huge difference to their development.”

Highlighting the opportunities the tournament presents for aspiring cricketers, CV Milind, captain of Anvita Khammam Aces, said: “We have been waiting for a league like this for a long time. The league provides a platform for young players to showcase their talent and take the next step in their careers. It can become a steppingstone towards higher levels of cricket, including the IPL.”

TG20 inaugural match between Strikers and Aces

The inaugural match of the competition will see Palamuru Strikers take on Anvita Khammam Aces, with both teams eager to make a strong start to their campaign.

Looking ahead to the season opener, Pragnay Reddy, captain of Palamuru Strikers, said: “We’re excited to get the tournament underway. The build-up has been fantastic and everyone is eager to get on the field. It’s a great opportunity for players to showcase their skills, and we’re looking forward to putting in a strong performance.”

“Being part of the opening game is special. We want to put on a great show for the fans and start the tournament on a positive note. Our squad has prepared well and we’re excited to finally take the field,” added CV Milind.

Ahead of the inaugural match, the opening ceremony will mark the official commencement of the HCA’s TG20, bringing together players, franchise owners, dignitaries and fans in a grand celebration of Telangana’s newest sporting spectacle. The evening will set the stage for a tournament that aims to redefine the cricketing landscape of the state.

Shesh Narayan appointed HCA official spokesperson

In a damage-control move, the beleaguered HCA has appointed its former secretary T Sesh Narayan as the official spokesperson of the association with immediate effect.

The HCA has been in the news for all the wrong reasons for the last few months and has been battered from all sides for ‘omissions and commissions’ which are said to be detrimental for cricket in the state.

A file photo of T Shesh Narayan (second from left) addressing the media

Hence to create a favourable image of the HCA, the cricket body has undertaken such a measure by going back to its club secretary to halt the bad publicity. Shesh Narayan has been known to be media savvy and has over the years maintained good relations with the media.

“We are pleased to inform you that T Sesh Narayan has been appointed as the official spokesperson of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) with immediate effect,” said HCA secretary M Jeevan Reddy.

“Sesh Narayan will assist HCA in strengthening its communication and media outreach initiatives and will represent the association on matters assigned from time to time. On behalf of the HCA, we welcome him to the HCA family and wish him success in this role,” stated Jeevan Reddy.