Uppal Stadium Here to Stay, Clarifies HCA Secretary Jeevan Reddy
Amid growing speculation that Hyderabad's iconic Uppal stadium could be phased out once the city's proposed new cricket venue becomes operational, Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) secretary M. Jeevan Reddy has moved quickly to put those fears to rest. Speaking to reporters, Reddy stated in no uncertain terms that Uppal remains central to the HCA's future plans and will not be discarded once the new facility comes up.
Uppal has been the beating heart of Hyderabad cricket for decades, hosting international fixtures, domestic tournaments and countless young cricketers taking their first steps in the sport. Reddy emphasised that any new infrastructure is meant to supplement, not replace, the historic ground, ensuring both venues serve the city's expanding cricketing needs. CricketBuzz understands that discussions around renovation and modernisation of Uppal are also on the association's agenda, alongside the new stadium project.
Focus Shifts to Rural Telangana
Beyond the stadium debate, the HCA is placing renewed emphasis on grassroots development across the state. Reddy revealed that the association plans to set up dedicated cricket academies in Mahabubnagar and Karimnagar by the summer, aiming to identify and nurture talent from rural pockets of Telangana that have historically had limited access to structured coaching and facilities.
According to Reddy, these academies will be equipped with proper pitches, coaching staff and support systems designed to give young cricketers from smaller towns a genuine pathway into the state and eventually national setup. As CricketBuzz reported earlier, the HCA has been keen on decentralising cricket development beyond Hyderabad city, and this rural push is seen as a significant step in that direction. With both Uppal's future secured and new academies on the horizon, Telangana cricket appears poised for a broader, more inclusive growth phase. Stay with CricketBuzz for more updates as these plans take shape.