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Redrawing Telangana’s cricket map
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Every season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) begins long before the first ball is bowled. Months in advance, franchise scouts scatter across the domestic circuit in search of the next breakout talent, hoping to spot a player before the rest of the cricketing world catches on. From Tamil Nadu to Delhi, these tournaments have given promising domestic cricketers a stage on which one outstanding season can alter the course of a career. Telangana joined that landscape this year with TG20, offering homegrown talent the chance to prove their mettle in conditions designed to mirror the IPL experience. While that alone marks a major leap for aspiring cricketers, the league’s biggest contribution may lie beyond the bright lights.For years, the story of cricket in the State has largely been the story of Hyderabad. Particularly since the bifurcation of the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh, the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has faced criticism for concentrating much of its infrastructure and player-development efforts within the capital. TG20, however, has started changing that equation. Depending on who you ask, that was either the intention from the outset, a fortunate by-product, or simply a move to placate critics. Whatever the motivation, the impact has been undeniable.The league has made it mandatory for each of the eight teams to field two district players in its playing XI while doing away with the polarising ‘Impact Player’ rule. The franchises — Hyderabad e-Champions, Khammam Aces, Karimnagar Diamonds, Ranga Reddy Risers, Nalgonda Knights, Palamuru Strikers (Mahabubnagar), Warangal Warriors and Medak Falcons — have consequently been compelled to cast their nets wider, conducting trials, scouting extensively and identifying talent from across Telangana that might otherwise have remained outside the State’s cricketing ecosystem.The impact has been immediate. The inaugural season has generated considerable interest, prompting organisers to open additional stands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium as attendance rose from around 7,000 during the opening week to nearly 15,000. Domestic cricketers whose performances once unfolded before empty seats are suddenly playing before sizeable crowds, television cameras and IPL scouts.From the margins to the main stageAs a result, beyond the familiar names of K. Himateja, M. Abhirath Reddy and C.V. Milind, the league has become an even bigger opportunity for players from districts across Telangana, far removed from Hyderabad’s established cricketing circles.The first batch of district cricketers has done far more than merely survive. Their performances have drawn attention not only from the ever-watchful IPL scouts but also from those tasked with shaping cricket in the State, as Ambati Rayudu, HCA’s Head of Cricket Operations, points out. “I see tremendous talent. TG20 has brought about a lot of hope among players in the districts, simply because they now have a platform to showcase themselves at a high level,” he says.To be fair to the HCA, efforts to open cricket’s doors to players beyond Hyderabad had begun even before TG20, with the association conducting district trials across Telangana. Four players currently featuring in the league — Javvaji Srikanth, Naga Sudhamsh, Md. Azheruddin and Samhith Reddy — earned their opportunity through that initiative.If one player has truly announced himself through TG20, it is 26-year-old all rounder Ganesh Gadugu. His cricketing journey began while delivering newspapers as a middle school student. What started with tennis-ball cricket gradually grew into something far more serious. Spectators fill the stands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad during a match at the inaugural TG20, as the league continues to draw increasing
A file photo of farmers protesting against the State government's newly formed Suryanagar Phase 4 by Karnataka Housing board, bordering Bannerghatta National Park in Anekal, in Bengaluru Urban District. | MURALI KUMAR A city-based advocate Umapathi S. has filed a complaint with the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA), Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) and the Additional Director General of Forests (Wildlife) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), opposing the construction of a new international cricket stadium at Suryanagar 4th Phase in Anekal taluk, on the southeastern outskirts of Bengaluru.“In the larger public interest to urgently bring to the attention of the wildlife and environmental authorities a serious and ongoing environmental violation by the Karnataka Housing Board- the substitution, without any fresh Environmental Clearance or Wildlife Assessment, of a quiet residential township for an 80,000-seater International Cricket Stadium located just 1,012 metres from the Bannerghatta National Park,” the complaint stated.He pointed out various violations and to stop the work order to the Karnataka Housing Board (KHB) restraining all activities and to revoke the the Wildlife NOC issued to the KHB for the residential township- as the KHB has misrepresented the project purpose and the NOC does not extend, either in law or in fact, to a commercial cricket stadium.He also called for the KHB to apply for a fresh Wildlife Impact Assessment and Forest Department NOC specifically for an 80,000-seater cricket stadium at 1,012-1,407 metres from the BNP, including assessment of acoustic, lighting, vehicular and habitat impacts.Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will be laying the foundation stone for the stadium on May 23. Published - May 22, 2026 10:53 pm IST
Discussed the situation in West Asia and its implications. Also exchanged views on bilateral issues of mutual interest, says External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Published - May 15, 2026 11:57 am IST - New Delhi PTI External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during a meeting with Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, left, on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers' meeting, in New Delhi. (@DrSJaishankar/X via PTI Photo) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on Friday (May 15, 2026) held wide-ranging talks focusing on the West Asia crisis and its impact on energy supplies and maritime stability.The Iranian Foreign Minister is on a three-day visit to New Delhi to attend a BRICS conclave. BRICS Foreign Ministers meet in India as Iran war, oil prices, internal divisions test bloc’s unity"Had a detailed conversation with FM Abbas Araghchi of Iran this morning in Delhi," Mr. Jaishankar said on social media.Had a detailed conversation with FM Abbas Araghchi of Iran this morning in Delhi. @araghchiDiscussed the situation in West Asia and its implications. Also exchanged views on bilateral issues of mutual interest. Appreciate his participation in #BRICSIndia2026.🇮🇳 🇮🇷 pic.twitter.com/1eCdnQ8igK— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 15, 2026"Discussed the situation in West Asia and its implications. Also exchanged views on bilateral issues of mutual interest," he said.S.’ Russian oil waiverThe External Affairs Minister also appreciated Mr. Araghchi's participation at the BRICS Foreign Ministerial meeting. Published - May 15, 2026 11:57 am IST Related Topics diplomacy / Iran / India / West Asia / war / energy resources
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addresses the BRICS Foreign Ministers' meeting at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on May 14, 2026. | Jaishankar said in his opening remarks at the BRICS Foreign Ministers Summit that began on Thursday (May 14, 2026).India is hosting the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on May 14 and 15, 2026, which will be chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.“The conflict in West Asia merits particular attention. Continuing tensions, risks to maritime traffic, and disruptions to energy infrastructure highlight the fragility of the situation. Safe and unimpeded maritime flows through international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea, remain vital for global economic well-being,” Mr. Jaishankar noted.“The wider region also gives rise to serious concern. The conflict in Gaza has grave humanitarian implications. A sustained ceasefire, humanitarian access, and a credible pathway towards a durable and peaceful resolution remain essential. India supports a two-state solution where the Palestine issue is concerned,” he added.“We must also address the increasing resort to unilateral coercive measures and sanctions inconsistent with international law and the UN Charter. Such measures disproportionately affect developing countries. These unjustifiable measures cannot substitute dialogue, nor can pressure replace diplomacy,” said Mr. Jaishankar.Mr. Jaishankar, as the Chair, thanked the delegation for their presence and for the continued commitment to strengthening cooperation within the BRICS framework. “All of us remain in close and regular contact through bilateral and multilateral engagements. Gathering together for the BRICS meeting is, however, a special occasion. It allows us to exchange perspectives and encourages us to develop convergences. And in this complicated and uncertain world, that is of ever greater importance,” he added.He further said “India’s Chairmanship appreciates your support which has contributed to the steady progress of our work. To date, we have organized over 80 BRICS meetings, with active participation from all members. These engagements have strengthened cooperation and advanced dialogue across sectors. We look forward to building on this momentum.”The External Affairs Minister said “Promoting a more inclusive and collaborative BRICS framework, we, as Chair, have been engaging with Partner countries as well. We have also taken forward discussions on institutional development, including the integration of new members through a stocktake and updation of existing mechanisms. It is essential for the smooth advancement of BRICS that later members fully appreciate and subscribe to the BRICS’ consensus on various important issues.”Mr. Jaishankar said peace and security issues remain central to global order. “We meet at a time of considerable flux in international relations. Ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainties and challenges in trade, technology are shaping global landscape,” he noted.Mr. Jaishankar said that the discussions are an opportunity to reflect on global and regional developments and recent conflicts only underline importance of dialogue and diplomacy.“Economic resilience is also key. Reliable supply chains and diversified markets are its essential components. We must focus on both. Climate change remains a pressing concern. Our discussions must advance sustainable development while upholding the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities. Technological advancements are reshaping the global landscape. It can be leveraged for good governance and inclusive growth,” Mr. Jaishankar noted.“As Chair, I will facilitate an open and constructive exchange. I encourage all delegations to share their perspectives in that spirit. Your inputs will help guide our discussions
Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, inaugurates the Brechin Castle agro-processing facility in South Trinidad, in the presence of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, on May 9. Photo: X/@DrSJaishankar via ANI External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Saturday (May 9, 2026) handed over an agro-processing facility, built with India’s assistance in South Trinidad, in the presence of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.Mr. Jaishankar arrived in Port of Spain from Paramaribo on Friday (May 8, 2026) on the concluding leg of his three-nation tour of Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, aimed at deepening India’s engagement with the Caribbean nations.“Delivering on another commitment made by PM @narendramodi in July 2025. Jointly handed over an agro-processing facility in South Trinidad along with @PM_Kamla, powered by India’s SEEDS initiative,” Mr. Jaishankar posted on social media on Saturday (May 9, 2026).India’s SEEDS (Supply of Equipment for Efficient Development of SMEs) initiative aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth in the Global South.The project will strengthen Trinidad and Tobago’s “SME ecosystem and provide fresh impetus to its farming sector,” he said.Mr. Jaishankar also travelled to Nelson Island, where the Girmitiyas first arrived, with PM Persad-Bissessar.The first Indian immigrants, Girmitiyas, arrived in Trinidad and Tobago in 1845.He also joined PM Persad-Bissessar “for a Quick Impact Project on Nelson Island."“Supported by Indian assistance, this will preserve and showcase the shared heritage of an enduring journey,” he said. Earlier on Friday (May 8, 2026), Mr. Jaishankar held comprehensive talks with PM Persad-Bissessar to explore new ideas and initiatives for expanding bilateral cooperation between India and the dual-island nation.He concluded agreements on tourism, solarisation of the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM (Caribbean Community and Common Market) Affairs building, and the establishment of an Ayurveda Chair. Published - May 10, 2026 09:19 am IST
In this image posted on May 9, 2026, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in conversation with Trinidad and Tobago Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers during the final leg of his three-nation Caribbean tour, after visiting Jamaica and Suriname, in Port of Spain. | Jaishankar said cricket gives a “special dimension” to India’s ties with Trinidad and Tobago, as he highlighted the deep cultural and historical bonds shared by the two countries during a flag-raising ceremony in Port of Spain.Mr. Jaishankar arrived in Port of Spain from Paramaribo on Friday (May 8, 2026) on the concluding leg of his three-nation tour of Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, aimed at further strengthening India's strategic and cultural ties with the Caribbean nations.“India has traditionally had very warm and friendly relations with Trinidad and Tobago, and these ties have been underpinned by shared history, our struggle against colonialism and by our very special bonds of cricket,” the Minister said in his remarks at the ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM (Caribbean Community and Common Market) Affairs on Friday (May 8, 2026).“But if there is a special dimension to our ties, it is of course cricket,” he said, adding that Indians have long been admirers of West Indian cricketers.Trinidad and Tobago is one of the traditional powerhouses of Caribbean cricket and home to several legendary West Indies cricketers, including Brian Lara and Ian Bishop.Mr. Jaishankar also praised batting legend Lara, who attended the flag-raising ceremony.“It’s no secret that we Indians have long been big fans of West Indian cricketers. I’m sure Mr Lara would testify to it,” he said.Referring to contemporary players from Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Jaishankar said cricketers such as Sunil Narine, Kieron Pollard and Nicholas Pooran continue to enjoy immense popularity in India.The Minister also underlined the cultural similarities between the two countries, saying people in India and Trinidad and Tobago share commonalities in food, sports, clothing and traditions.He noted that festivals such as Diwali, Phagwa (Indo-Caribbean name for Holi) and Eid are celebrated enthusiastically in Trinidad and Tobago, while Indian music, dance, television serials and films remain popular in the country.Earlier, Mr. Jaishankar met Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and discussed bilateral cooperation and regional issues.He also joined the Prime Minister at an event for the presentation of Made-in-India laptops to school children of Trinidad and Tobago.In a social media post, Mr. Jaishankar said the initiative fulfilled a commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year."This is a message of learning, awareness and opportunity," he said.Mr. Jaishankar was welcomed on his arrival by Foreign Minister Sean Sobers.The External Affairs Minister also visited the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago. He described it as a privilege to be welcomed in Parliament and thanked Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar for her gracious words.He also called on the President of the Senate, Wade Mark and Speaker of the House of Representatives Jagdeo Singh.In another post, Mr. Jaishankar said agreements were concluded on tourism, solarisation of the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs building, Quick Impact Projects and the establishment of an Ayurveda Chair.He also posted photographs of his interaction with Lara, describing the meeting as being with the “one and only” cricket legend. Published - May 09, 2026 10:24 am IST
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