In a significant move for Indian domestic cricket, former India international Amay Khurasiya has stepped down as head coach of Kerala after a landmark two-year tenure, during which he guided the team to their first-ever Ranji Trophy final. The 53-year-old is now set to take on a fresh challenge as head coach of Chhattisgarh for the upcoming season.

"I decided to shift my base to Chhattisgarh for the upcoming Ranji season," Khurasiya told reporters. "It is a fresh challenge that excites me. I had come to Thiruvananthapuram earlier this week and officially tendered my resignation."

Khurasiya's departure marks the end of a transformative period for Kerala cricket. Under his guidance, the team reached the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in their history during the 2024-25 season, a feat that captured the imagination of fans across the state. Reflecting on his time with the squad, Khurasiya said: "I had a great time over the past two years in Kerala. They're a humble bunch. Going forward, they need a good mentor more than a good coach. I will miss Kerala, the team bonding and the warm atmosphere."

Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) secretary Vinod Kumar confirmed that Khurasiya's contract had expired at the end of the season and clarified that the departure was not performance-related. "Typically KCA appoints a coach for a two-year tenure. Amay's exit had nothing to do with how Kerala performed last season," Vinod asserted. "It was unfortunate that a spate of injuries halted our campaign. We will issue an Expression of Interest and invite applications for a new coach in the coming days."

Vinod was quick to praise Khurasiya's impact on the team's culture, noting: "Amay brought in a strong sense of professionalism and work ethic to this team. His contribution in shaping Kerala cricket over the past two years has been significant."

Khurasiya also highlighted some of the emerging talent he helped develop, singling out MD Nidheesh as "the find of the season for Kerala last year" and Eden Apple Tom as "another talented pacer who can be nurtured further."

Now, Khurasiya turns his attention to Chhattisgarh, a team with immense potential but still building its cricketing structure. His experience and eye for talent could be exactly what the state needs to nurture emerging players and climb the domestic ranks. For cricket fans, this move adds an intriguing storyline to the upcoming Ranji Trophy season.