India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has been appointed captain of the Hyderabad senior men’s team for the 2026–27 Ranji Trophy season in which the pace spearheads a major leadership role in domestic first-class cricket.
The Hyderabad Cricket Association's senior selection committee made the decision on September 11, 2026 and the appointment was announced at a meeting on September 12. HCA confirmed Siraj will lead the side and left-arm pacer Chama Milind will be the vice-captain.
The decision comes at an important point in Siraj's career and the fast bowler wants to keep his red ball rhythm and continue to contribute to Hyderabad's domestic campaign.
Siraj’s leadership comes at an important moment.
Siraj is one of India's top Test fast bowlers and has gained much international experience. With his selection to Hyderabad captaincy the team will have more exposure to high-pressure cricket.
The appointment could also keep Siraj very closely connected with first-class cricket. He recently spoke about how difficult it is when he went away from competitive cricket, saying practice sessions can’t replicate the match intensity.
For Hyderabad, having an experienced international bowler leading the attack might also instill more confidence in a relatively young domestic team, as it would give them a certain degree of confidence.
Chama Milind Named Vice-Captain
The HCA has appointed C.V. Milind, also known as Chama Milind, as Siraj's deputy. According to the association, Milind will take over the captaincy when Siraj is unavailable because of national-team commitments.
That arrangement could prove especially important because Siraj's international schedule may overlap with the Ranji Trophy season.
Hyderabad's Ranji Trophy Campaign
The 2026–27 Ranji Trophy season is scheduled to begin on October 11. Hyderabad has been placed in Elite Group B with Karnataka, Saurashtra, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Assam and Tripura. Hyderabad's first match will be on October 11 against Tripura.
Siraj's challenge will go beyond bowling. As captain, he will have to take charge of the attack, guide younger players and be able to make important tactical decisions in four-day games.
A chance to take Hyderabad back to success.
Siraj’s appointment adds much to Hyderabad’s Ranji team. His experience at the highest level, and his ties with Hyderabad cricket, make him a natural choice to lead the side.
With the first match on October 11, Siraj's preparation and whether he can combine his role as Hyderabad's premier fast bowler with the demands of the captaincy will now come to the fore.
