Andhra Pradesh faced a four-run defeat against Madhya Pradesh in their Ranji Trophy quarter-final clash on Monday, culminating in a tense and thrilling encounter where Madhya Pradesh emerged victorious. However, the disappointment for Andhra Pradesh extended beyond the loss on the field. Following the match, prominent batsman and former captain Hanuma Vihari made explosive accusations directed at both the Andhra Cricket Association and a fellow teammate. In a controversial statement shared on Instagram, Vihari detailed the events leading to his resignation from the captaincy, citing a confrontation with a player, who was identified as the offspring of a “prominent politician”.
Following Hanuma Vihari’s accusations, Andhra cricketer Prudhvi Raj KN responded on Instagram, identifying himself as the player mentioned by Vihari. However, Prudhvi offered a contrasting narrative, alleging that Vihari had verbally abused him.
In a bid to quell the escalating social media dispute, the Andhra Cricket Association issued an official statement, leveling accusations against the Indian cricketer.
In their statement, Andhra Cricket Association said, “Addressing the reported issue, it has come to our attention that Mr. Vihari personally verbally abused a specific player during the Bengal Ranji game in front of everyone. The affected player filed an official complaint with ACA.”
The association also explained the captaincy change in the statement. The statement revealed, “In January 2024, following the first Ranji Trophy game, an email from the Chairman of the Senior Selection Committee proposed a new captain due to Vihari’s status as an Indian prospect affecting his season-long availability. Vihari, in response, expressed appreciation for the decision, leading to Ricky Bhui being announced as the new captain by the senior selection committee.”
The association further claimed that they had been informed by Vihari’s teammates, support staff, and ACA administrators about the batter’s use of offensive language and abusive conduct.
Vihari of frequently requested a No Objection Certificate (NOC), as stated by ACA to transfer to other state teams, only to retract the request shortly afterward. The board asserted their intention to initiate an investigation into all the grievances raised.
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