Andhra Pradesh and Bengal concluded their opening Ranji Trophy 2023-24 match in a draw, with Andhra’s Ricky Bhui emerging as the top-scorer with a noteworthy 175-run innings. Bhui disclosed post-match that the team, under the leadership of Hanuma Vihari, has implemented a policy of not celebrating individual accomplishments this season.
Reflecting on his 15th First-Class century, Bhui shared that there was no applause when he reached the milestone, emphasizing Vihari’s directive that all achievements are considered team milestones. Bhui achieved his 150 with a boundary but clarified that removing his helmet was not a personal celebration; instead, it signified surpassing Bengal’s first-innings score of 409.
Expressing the team’s mindset, Bhui stated, ‘People usually get satisfied after reaching a milestone. No one should be satisfied until we are winning the game.’
The new in-house rule prohibits clapping for personal milestones but allows synchronized clapping at any time. The entire squad gathers in the dressing room, supporting the players on the field with collective encouragement through clapping.
Bhui underscored the team’s unity, stating, ‘With these small things, we have made sure that the team has to be together. We are so determined to cross the line this time.’ In the match against Bengal, Anustup Majumdar and Abhishek Porel made significant contributions to Bengal’s total of 509.
Bhui, with his impressive 175-run knock, featuring 23 fours and a six, earned the ‘Player of the Match’ title. Vihari added to Andhra’s score of 445 with a half-century. The next challenge for Andhra is against Mumbai at Wankhede Stadium, commencing on January 12.
Notably, Ricky Bhui secured an Indian Premier League (IPL) contract last year with Delhi Capitals for his base price of Rs 20 lakh. He aspires to perform well, hoping it will pave the way for an international debut.
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