July will mark a momentous milestone in the career of Ramakrishnan Sridhar because it is poised for an upswing that is likely to enhance his stature by several notches.
Precisely ten days before turning 45, Sridhar received a befitting recognition of his proven track-record as a coach when the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) hired him as the head coach of their Ranji squad on an initial two-year contract.
"I am delighted with the offer, which I intend taking up tentatively on August 1," exulted the humble former left-arm spinner, who has played 35 first-class matches for Hyderabad and also represented the South Zone in his playing days that spanned a dozen years.
He is among the best known names in Indian coaching, particularly in the crucial department of fielding, of which he is a specialist.
This latest appointment continues a remarkable year for Sridhar.
His diligence and innovative approach bore fruit in the seventh edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) when, in his first year as fielding coach, he played an integral part in Kings XI Punjab’s incredible runner-up campaign.
“I am honoured to be a part of KXIP and now ACA,” Sridhar explained. “Like the IPL outfit, the Andhra squad has the perfect blend of young, talented and experienced players.
“I am keen to bring in a new dynamism into the team as it prepares for the gruelling Ranji season."
Although he has been into coaching since 2001, the 13-year-wait has been worth the effort as Andhra provides the ideal platform for him to take up his first job as a full-time head coach.
Andhra finished seventh in Group C in the 2013-14 Ranji Trophy season with one win from eight matches and only one triumph in five Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy outings meant that they failed to qualify for the knockout stage.
In his halcyon days, Sridhar took 91 wickets in 15 List A matches and he is keen to impart his knowledge on the Andhra team.
"I am sure the boys will be open to my ideas, which will be more focused on getting battle-ready and developing a winning spirit that stems from the ‘we can do’ mindset. My immediate aim would be to imbibe qualities that can help go past Plate stage," points out the Mysore-born Hyderabad native.
“Andhra has a bright future ahead of them. I will have an opportunity to motivate this bunch into proven materials.”
