“I felt humiliated, embarassed…”: Hanuma Vihari slams Andhra Cricket Association for political interference

Indian batter Hanuma Vihari announced on Monday that he will never represent Andhra Pradesh in domestic cricket ever again, accusing the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) of mistreatement that has left him “humiliated.”.

Vihari made this revelation just after Andhra Pradesh’s Ranji Trophy journey came to an end during the quarterfinals with a four-run loss to Madhya Pradesh. During a run-chase of 170, Vihari made a fighting 55 runs. He ended the Ranji season with 522 runs in 13 innings at an average of just above 40, with a century and three fifties.

In an Instagram post, Vihari made allegations that he was forced to resign as captain following Andhra’s opening round match against Bengal back in January. During that time, he had cited personal reasons for his decision, but now revealed that the association had in fact acted against him because of political interference after he shouted at a player, whom he claimed was a politician’s son.

“I was captain in the first game against Bengal, and during the game, I shouted at the 17th player, and he complained to his dad (who is a politician). His dad in return asked the association to take action against me. Although we chased 410 against last year’s finalists, Bengal [for a first-innings lead], I was asked to resign from captaincy without any fault of mine,” wrote Vihari.

Vihari said that he did not say anything personal to the player and felt that the board had undermined his importance despite his contribution to the team and the fact he represented India in Tests as well.