D Kalyankrishna, a former first-class cricketer, has been appointed as the new Director of Cricket for the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA). The move, which follows recent internal administrative shifts within the organization, mirrors the strategy employed by the Hyderabad Cricket Association, which previously appointed Ambati Rayudu to a similar role. By entrusting all cricketing operations to a former state player, the ACA aims to streamline its development efforts.
Kalyankrishna, who played 104 matches across various formats during his career, is widely recognized for his work in Telugu cricket commentary. He has announced a temporary departure from his broadcasting duties to dedicate his full attention to the growth of cricket in the region. Regarding his new role, the 42-year-old stated that his primary vision involves enhancing the sport at the grassroots level, focusing on the education of coaches, and increasing the overall number of qualified coaches available to players.
The newly appointed director emphasized a desire to see more athletes from Andhra represent India and feature in the IPL. "I want more players representing India and IPL teams. I also want to provide players with good coaches and infrastructure. With that, I feel we can achieve our goals. Besides, I want to implement a school league structure in all districts," he explained. Currently, Nitish Kumar Reddy serves as the only international cricketer hailing from the state.
The appointment comes during a transitional period for the ACA. The state team, which saw the departure of international players like Hanuma Vihari, who obtained an NOC, and KS Bharat, who retired, reached the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals last season under the leadership of captain Ricky Bhui and coach Gary Stead. In other formats, the team reached the Super League of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and placed seventh in its group during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Meanwhile, the association is currently seeking a new Chief Executive Officer following the departure of Girish Dongre, with the position requiring a professional with 15 years of senior leadership experience.
