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Former opening batsman and one of the true legends of Indian domestic cricket, Wasim Jaffer, has been appointed as the new mentor of the Hyderabad cricket team. Known for his exceptional batting technique, Jaffer will be associated with the Hyderabad team for the next two years to provide guidance. Notably, Jaffer holds the record for the highest run-scorer in the history of Indian domestic cricket.
Decision taken at Ambati Rayudu's behest
T. Basavaraju, Secretary of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), confirmed the news while speaking to Cricbuzz. He stated, "It is almost finalized; only a few technical formalities remain. We will make a formal announcement tomorrow (June 30)."
According to sources, Ambati Rayudu played a key role in the decision to appoint Wasim Jaffer as mentor. Rayudu was recently appointed as the 'Director of Cricket' for the Hyderabad Cricket Association. An HCA official remarked, "This is entirely Rayudu's decision, as he has been granted full authority to make decisions regarding cricket-related matters."
Jaffer brings extensive coaching experience
The 48-year-old Wasim Jaffer has played 31 Test matches and 2 ODIs for India.
He possesses extensive experience in coaching and mentoring within domestic cricket:- He has previously served as the head coach of the Uttarakhand team.
- Last season, he worked as a batting consultant with the Vidarbha team.
- Additionally, he has worked with Punjab Kings in the IPL and the Bangladesh national team at the international level.
All eyes on the Hyderabad team's resurgence
Hyderabad, a two-time Ranji Trophy champion (1937-38 and 1986-87), has been struggling to regain its former form in domestic cricket over the past few years.
- Ranji Trophy (2025-26): The team finished fourth in Elite Group B.
- Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20): The team topped Elite Group B but missed out on the race to the final due to Net Run Rate (NRR) in the Super League Group B.
- Vijay Hazare Trophy: The team finished sixth in Group B and failed to qualify for the quarter-finals.
Now, the legendary duo of Ambati Rayudu and Wasim Jaffer will join forces in an effort to propel Hyderabad cricket to new heights once again.
