Vihari upbeat about leading Andhra Ranji team

Fortune favours the brave, goes on old saying. G Hamuna Vihari's move to Andhra was a shocker for many in Hyderabad but the batsman's decision seems to have paid off. The 22-year-old Kakinada born batsman, who was part of the triumphant India Blue side in the recently held Duleep Trophy, was on Monday named the skipper of the Andhra Ranji Team for this season.

Vihari shared his thoughts with ToI in a telephonic chat.

Excerpts:

On captaincy

No, I didn't expect it. When I opted to play for Andhra, the foremost thing on my mind was to establish myself in the team. I knew I would get a chance to play but I was keen on cementing my place in the side. Captaincy was never on my mind. Hence, it is a big surprise for me. I am really grateful to the selectors and officials for the faith they have reposed in him. I want to repay them by helping the side do well this season and achieve the goals we have set for ourselves. About the team We are a young but experienced side and have great balance. Last year, the batting was a bit of bother but with me and Ravi Teja in the side I think we will cover the deficit. Our pacers have proven themselves in the last few years and the addition of left-arm spinner Bhargav Bhat adds depth to the spin department. On the whole, we have a very good side and I am confident that we will reach our goals.

Team goals

As a team we want to reach the quarters this season. From there we want to take it one match at a time and see how far we can go. We want to move to the next level and thereby compete with the bigger and more seasoned teams.

Personal goals

It is a new beginning for me and so I am re ally excited about it. I just want to keep on doing what I have done in the last couple of seasons get runs. I want to be more consistent and aim to get 700 to 800 runs under my belt each season in the next few years so that I can knock on the doors of the Indian team. Being a consistent performer will definitely help me push the door.

Duleep Trophy stint

It was a good experience and even though I didn't get to play any game, there was so much to learn by just watching the players. Many of them have played the game at the highest level with great success and hence it was nice rubbing shoulders with such great players. It was nice to watch the players go about with their match preparations etc.

Ravi Teja's experience

He is a very experienced player and it is wonderful to have him in the team. His presence gives me a lot of confidence. I will surely be looking forward to his advice and experience on the field. I will not hesitate to seek his counsel when needed during the games. We gel well and that is a big bonus.

Foes turned friends

My teammates are not new to me. I have played a lot of cricket against them and hence played a lot of cricket against them and hence we have got to know each other over the years.We did get on well off the field and that bonhomie will help us now.

Neutral venues

It will not be much of a bother for us because we are strong in all departments of the game. We are ready to play in whatever conditions we get as we have the wherewithal to counter and prosper.

Being on the road

Yes, it's going to be a tough season as we will be playing nine games on the trot. It's going to be a real challenge but we are looking forward to it. On the positive side, it gives the team a chance to bond over those 2-12 months. We will get to know each other's strength and weakness and work on improving as players as well as a team. All the players in the team have good first-class experience and as such will be ready for the challenges.They know how to cope up with slump in form etc.

On coach Santh Kumar

He is a very experienced coach and it will be a big boon for us having him. His experience will definitely help us better things in the team.

In Kaif 's shoes

(Mohd) Kaif is a great player and filling his shoes will be a real challenge for me. But I am not at all worried about it. I take it as a challenge as it gives me an opportunity to better myself as a player and captain. I don't make comparisons with anyone and hence, I am quite comfortable with any situation.