Saurabh Kumar moves to Andhra ahead of new domestic season

Before the start of the new domestic season, Saurabh Kumar, a left-arm spinner from Uttar Pradesh, is planning to move to Andhra. The transfer has received the stamp of approval from both the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) and the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA). Consent from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is needed but it is expected to be a mere formality. Saurabh, the 32-year-old spinner, who was part of the India squad during last year's series against England as well as the overseas tours of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, has obtained the mandatory NOC from his home state. He has claimed 324 wickets in 79 first-class matches at an impressive average of 26.45, making him a prolific wicket-taker in domestic cricket. Last year, Andhra did not have a great domestic season, losing to UP in the preliminary quarterfinal of the SMAT after winning five of six Group E games and failing to advance to the VHT knockout stage after winning only four of seven Group B games. In the Ranji Trophy, they ended up with 13 points with one win, three draws and as many losses, failing to make the knockouts. The ACA held its AGM in Vijayawada on Sunday (June 8) and the general body approved the transfer. An Andhra cricket official said the Saurabh move has the endorsement of all senior players of the side, including skipper Ricky Bhui, Hanuma Vihari and KS Bharat. An ACA official stated, "The move has been approved, but a few formalities remain." "We will be writing to Abey Kuruvilla for the BCCI's approval."