Aneeshwar Gautam has been named captain of the Hubli Tigers for the fifth edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, the franchise announced on 18 June in Bengaluru. Alongside the captaincy reveal, the team unveiled its new season jersey and launched the official Hubli Tigers anthem ahead of the tournament's 20 June start.

A Champion Franchise Targeting Another Title

Hubli Tigers, who lifted the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 title in 2023, enter Season 5 with clear ambitions of reclaiming the trophy. The franchise bolstered their squad at the Season 5 Player Auction, securing the services of Abhinav Manohar and Mayank Agarawal as headline acquisitions, supplemented by a blend of seasoned performers and emerging Karnataka talent.

Gautam on Leading the Side

Speaking after being confirmed as skipper, Aneeshwar Gautam said, 'When I was approached about the captaincy, I was slightly nervous. But Vinay Kumar and the coaching staff gave me a lot of confidence, and I received tremendous support from everyone in the team. It is an honour and a privilege to lead this side. Every year, going into the auction, I always hoped I would be picked by the Hubli Tigers. To now be leading this team feels very special.'

Head Coach Vinay Kumar on the Squad's Strength

Head Coach Vinay Kumar praised the franchise's structure and squad balance. 'I can proudly say that this franchise works like an IPL franchise. The management gives the coaching staff the freedom to run the show and provides all the support required to get the best out of the players. They have been the backbone of this franchise from day one. This year, we have a wonderful team with a good mixture of youth and experience. We have done our job; now it is up to the players to go out there, give their best, and try to win this competition,' he said.

Ownership's Vision for North Karnataka Cricket

Hubli Tigers co-owner Sushil Kumar Jindal underscored the franchise's broader mission at the event. 'This jersey is our destiny, and this anthem is our voice. Together, they represent the pride, resilience, and ambition of North Karnataka. Karnataka is a goldmine of raw talent, and our purpose is to provide a platform where young homegrown players can chase their dreams and fulfil their potential,' he said. The event was also attended by KSCA Vice-President Sujit Somasunder, Maharaja Trophy Governing Council Chairman M.S. Keshava, KSCA Treasurer B.N. Madhukar, and franchise owner Shivek Jindal.

Tournament Schedule and Hubli Tigers' Season Opener

The Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Season 5 runs from 20 June to 12 July across Mysuru, Hubballi, and Bengaluru, with six teams competing. Hubballi will host 12 matches between 27 June and 3 July. Hubli Tigers open their campaign against Coastal Kings Mangaluru on 21 June. Separately, Mysore Warriors also unveiled their jersey on the same day and named Vyshak Vijaykumar as their captain for the season.

Hubli Tigers Squad — Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Season 5: Abhinav Manohar, Mayank Agarawal, CR Hardik Raj, Manvanth Kumar L, Shikhar Shetty, Abhishek Ahlawat, Aneeshwar Gautam, Vaibhav Sharma, Kumar LR, Tanish Mahesh, Aditya Goyal, Kruthik Krishna, Mohammed Taha, Rakshit S, Preetesh Ingle, Vikas Gowda, Ronak Yelwal, Vinayak Holla K, Rohan M Yareshmi, Adarsh.