After every wicket that Rohit Rayudu has picked in the Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament, he has celebrated it with a roar. For the Hyderabad all-rounder, it is a reflection of what he is trying to bring into his game this season – to enjoy every moment.
Rayudu has so far taken 15 wickets and scored 108 runs in the competition, playing a key role in Hyderabad’s march to the final.
“On the field, I’ve tried to be more positive and aggressive with my game,” Rayudu told Sportstar after Hyderabad’s semifinal win over Haryana. “I want to enjoy my cricket. I want to be in the moment and keep producing match-winning performances for the team,” the 31-year-old added.
By his own admission, the 2024-25 domestic season was a mixed bag. While he scored three fifties in four innings in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20), he managed just one run across four outings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (List-A). In the Ranji Trophy, he made 227 runs in five matches and picked up eight wickets.
“I realised I needed to be more balanced in my head – mentally stable, irrespective of the outcome. Take it one day at a time. That was advice I got from our former Ranji Trophy coach, Vineet Saxena,” Rayudu said.
Still, he has taken positives from his T20 performances, a format in which he has been sharpening his skills under coach Jagadeesh Reddy. “We’ve focused on forward hitting, maintaining strong positions, and getting into good shape to strike the ball,” he explained.
An Indian Premier League (IPL) contract remains a clear target. “I’m working on batting in different positions and finishing games. If I can deliver consistently, maybe I’ll get my chance,” Rayudu said.
He has already attended several IPL trials without success. Feedback has been scarce, though Rajasthan Royals’ Zubin Bharucha urged him to take his batting to the next level. “He told me that it needs to be at the international level, that’s when a call-up will come.”
The off-season is crucial for Rayudu, who invests heavily in fitness and conditioning. He trains under his childhood coach, Sanjay Bhardwaj, at the LB Shastri Academy in Bhopal, staying at the hostel and playing matches whenever possible.
While several State associations have launched their own T20 leagues to help players develop in the format, Hyderabad is still waiting for one. “It’ll be happening soon, hopefully. It will be a great platform – there’s so much talent here. There are a lot of Tilak Varmas and Mohammed Sirajs waiting to showcase their talent,” Rayudu said.
For now, Rayudu hasn’t thought too far ahead: his focus is on a strong Ranji Trophy season while continuing to chase his IPL dream.
Published on Sep 03, 2025
