Hyderabad, Jan. 29 -- Hyderabad cricket is in a pitiable state. It has recently recorded its worst ever performance in the Ranji Trophy Championship. In the past Hyderabad used to be known for it's daredevilry. Its batsmen never hesitated to play their shots. The bowlers used to be very crafty - especially the spinners who were among the best in India. They could break the spine of the strongest batting line ups. Hyderabad also used to be a rival that the big guns took very seriously.

Now Hyderabad has declined to unprecedented depths in the Ranji trophy. The six defeats are testimony to the team's abject failure. Hyderabad finished with just one point from seven matches and was demoted to the Plate group for the next season. This is the...