Ranji Trophy 2023/24: Andhra Pradesh coach Nirmal Kumar optimistic forward of season opener towards Bengal

The temper within the Andhra Pradesh camp is upbeat forward of the Ranji Trophy season opener towards Bengal in Visakhapatnam from January 5, based on head coach Nirmal Kumar.

In an unique chat with Sportstar on Wednesday, Nirmal acknowledged the challenges forward, together with a aggressive group that includes Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, and Kerala. Still, he emphasised the group’s willpower to keep away from final season’s quarterfinal exit by the hands of Madhya Pradesh.

“As always, we would like to take it match by match. Keep the focus on improving with each game as quickly as possible,” stated the 51-year-old coach, who contributed to eight Andhra cricketers making it to the Indian under-19 groups.

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Leveraging three residence matches in Visakhapatnam, Andhra goals to capitalise on acquainted situations and safe a coveted knock-out stage berth. Coach Kumar, having steered Andhra to a Vinoo Mankad Trophy title and a Cooch Behar Trophy runner-up end, expressed confidence of their bowling unit.

“The focus in the preparatory camp has been on bowling as the batting is experienced and capable of raising the bar,” stated Nirmal, at present working within the ACA Central Zone Academy in Mangalagiri.

“Importantly, we practised on different types of pitches in the camp which should help us adapt to different conditions in the away games,” the defined.

Striving for a pressure-free setting, Kumar believes within the squad’s potential to emerge victorious towards any opponent. “We aren’t complacent, but confident,” he said, highlighting the perfect mix of youth and expertise below captain Hanuma Vihari’s management.

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“The team has the perfect balance of youth and experience led by the experienced Hanuma Vihari. What impressed me very much is everyone is gelling and helping each other, very keen to perform in the coming season,” the top coach stated.

“The team spirit is remarkable,” Kumar exclaimed. “Everyone is supporting and motivating each other, eager to put their best foot forward. My 25 years of experience as an ACA coach across various age groups will be invaluable in guiding this Andhra team.”

Having recognized most squad members since their junior days, Kumar possesses an intimate understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. This intimate information, coupled with unwavering optimism, fuels Andhra’s hopes for a profitable Ranji Trophy marketing campaign.