Hanuma Vihari announces decision to never play for Andhra following controversy

In an emotional declaration, seasoned cricketer and ex-Andhra captain Hanuma Vihari has disclosed his decision to sever ties with the Andhra Cricket Association, stating he will "never play for Andhra" again. This announcement came through a poignant message shared on his social media, following Andhra's elimination at the quarterfinal stage of the Ranji Trophy 2023-24. Vihari's statement shed light on a dispute that deeply affected him, tracing back to an incident after the season's opening match.

Vihari recounted the circumstances leading to his resignation from the captaincy, stating that he reprimanded a team member, who happens to be the son of a politician. This led to a demand from the player's father for the Andhra Cricket Association to take disciplinary action against Vihari. Despite leading the team to chase down a target of 410 against Bengal, a feat that highlighted his leadership and dedication, Vihari was compelled to step down from his leadership role, as per the post.

In his statement, Vihari expressed his disillusionment, emphasizing his contributions to the team over the years, including taking Andhra to the knockout stages five times in the past seven years and his tenure with the Indian Test team. He mentioned feeling humiliated by the association's actions, which prioritized the complaints over his commitment and achievements with the team.

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A post shared by Hanuma vihari (@viharigh)

He wrote:

"We fought hard till the end but it wasn't meant to be. Gutted to lose an another quarters with Andhra.

This post is about some facts I want to put forward. I was the captain in the first game against Bengal, during that game I shouted on 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 I was asked to resign from captaincy without any fault of mine. I never said anything on a personal note to the player but the association thought that player was more important than the guy who gave his body on the line last year and batted left handed, took Andhra to knock outs 5 times in the last 7 years and played for India in 16 tests.

I felt embarrassed but the only reason I continued playing this season because I respect the game and my team.

Sad part is association thinks that players have to listen to whatever they say and players are there because of them. I felt humiliated and embarrassed but I've not expressed it out until today.

I've decided that I'll never play for Andhra where i lost my self respect.

I love the team.

I love the way we're growing every season but association doesn't want us to grow."

Vihari's decision marks the end of his journey with Andhra, having represented the team in 37 first-class matches till date. His move back to Andhra from Hyderabad was seen as a homecoming, but this season saw Ricky Bhui leading the team following Vihari's resignation.

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