Kerala Coach Amay Khurasiya writes New Book on Ranji Trophy Emergence; Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble enrich with Inputs

After 74 years of participation in the Ranji Trophy, Kerala finally reached the final in the 2024-25 season, marking a landmark moment in the state's cricketing history.

Having made its debut in 1951-52 (as Travancore-Cochin) and its first full season in 1957-58, Kerala had long been considered a minnow in domestic cricket. Limited infrastructure and a modest talent pool kept the team on the periphery for decades, with a previous best of a semifinal appearance in 2018-19.

The transformation came under head coach Amay Khurasiya, a former Indian cricketer. In a dramatic semifinal against Gujarat in Ahmedabad, Kerala secured a narrow two-run first-innings lead on the final day, sealed by a spectacular helmet catch to dismiss Arzan Nagwaswalla. Though they lost the final to Vidarbha on first-innings lead, the achievement highlighted the team's newfound resilience and depth. Reinforcing this progress, six Kerala players were concurrently selected for the Duleep Trophy.

Amay Khurasiya writes a Book on Kerala!

At the core of this success was the application of ancient wisdom to modern cricket pressures. Khurasiya has documented his approach in the book "74 Years Later", co-authored with his daughter Amaysi Kirti Khurasiya.

The book demonstrates how the timeless teachings and battle strategies from Lord Krishna's Bhagavad Gita - including equanimity under stress, disciplined focus, selfless teamwork, and mental fortitude - can be effectively applied in high-pressure sporting environments.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav released the book at a function held at his official residence in Bhopal. The event was attended by co-author Amaysi Kirti Khurasiya.Structured as a practical guide rather than a conventional sports memoir, "74 Years Later" blends Khurasiya's coaching experiences with Gita-inspired insights. It offers actionable lessons on building mental strength and concentration, making it relevant not only for cricketers and coaches but for anyone facing performance pressure.

The book has also been enriched with inputs from several prominent figures, including former BCCI Secretary Sanjay Jagdale, former Indian captains Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, and Sanjay Bangar, former Sri Lankan captain Duleep Mendis, and Malayalam actor Mohanlal.

Currently available in English and Hindi, "74 Years Later" stands as a compelling fusion of sports and spirituality.