HCA Academy of Excellence (HCAE) – High-Performance Operational Master Plan

The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) is pleased to inform all concerned about the initiation of the Hyderabad Cricket Association Academy of Excellence (HCAE). This circular is issued to outline the High-Performance Operational Master Plan for the Academy to ensure uniform understanding and structured implementation.

1. Vision & Purpose

To establish Hyderabad as a high-performance cricketing ecosystem.
To deliver scientific, structured, and year-round training aligned with recognized quality and performance standards.

2. High-Performance Philosophy

Player-first approach with emphasis on performance, discipline, and professionalism.
Merit-based selection and appointments for coaches and support staff.
Structured and periodised training programs with strict adherence to professional conduct.

3. Administrative Structure & Governance

Apex Council, HCA shall be the authority for all key decisions including appointments, selection for support staff.
Director, HCAE shall be responsible for implementation, supervision, and day-to-day operations of the Academy strictly in accordance with decisions and approvals of the Apex Council.
Supporting staff to include Assistant Director (Operations & Technical), Coordinators, Accountant, Facilities Supervisor, Housekeeping and Security staff.

4. Player Intake & Strength

Morning Session: Probables from the most recent domestic season.
Men: Approximately 110–120 players (Senior, U-23, U-19, U-16).
Women: Approximately 100–120 players (Senior, U-23, U-19, U-15).
Players currently representing HCA at BCCI level and those included in probables lists shall be given priority intake, subject to availability and capacity.
Intake shall be limited and regulated to ensure quality training.

5. Scientific & Transparent Selection Criteria

Selection based on latest probables.
Mandatory fitness benchmarks (Yo-Yo test and prescribed standards).
Skill trials covering batting, bowling, and fielding.
Video analysis, structured evaluation rubrics, and quarterly performance reviews.
Minimum 85% attendance mandatory.
Annual retention and release process to be conducted every April with fresh induction thereafter.

6. Coaching & Support Staff Structure

Separate high-performance structures for:
Senior & U-23 Men
Junior Men
Senior & Junior Women
Dedicated specialist coaches for batting, bowling, fielding, strength & conditioning, physiotherapy, and performance analysis.
Shared resources may be utilised for junior groups where appropriate.

7. Staff Eligibility & Selection

All coaching and support staff appointments shall be made only by the Apex Council, HCA, as per applications received for the relevant season.

8. Market-Realistic Salary Structure

Clearly defined monthly salary ranges for all coaching and support roles.
Designed to ensure quality recruitment, accountability, and professionalism.

9. Training & Competition Framework

Daily: Skill development, tactical training, strength & conditioning, mental conditioning, and recovery.
Weekly: Structured micro-cycles including match simulations.
Annual Periodisation:
Pre-season: April – June
Skill Consolidation: July – September
In-season intensity & match preparation: October – March

10. Nutrition & Recovery

Daily basic nutrition and hydration support.
Weekly nutrition education and awareness sessions.

11. Facilities

Exclusive ground allocation for HCAE.
Minimum of six turf wickets daily.
High-performance gym, physiotherapy unit, video analysis facility, and ice bath recovery support.

12. Addressing Previous Concerns

Clear governance structure with Apex Council oversight.
No administrative ambiguity.
Improved wickets and training facilities.
Complete strength & conditioning and physiotherapy support including junior categories.

13. Performance Tracking & Reporting
Weekly and monthly operational and performance reports to be submitted to the Apex Council and CEO, HCA.Quarterly high-performance and budget review meetings.

14. Implementation Roadmap

Phase 1 (0–1 month): Staff appointment, player intake, commencement of pre-season training.
Phase 2 (2–9 months): Full-scale operations with integrated sports science support.
Phase 3: Consistent development and production of performance-ready players.

This circular shall come into effect immediately and shall be followed strictly by all concerned.

The HCAE shall function as a transparent, merit-driven, and professionally governed high-performance system under the overall supervision of the Apex Council, Hyderabad Cricket Association.