Expressing frustration with the Andhra Cricket Association's treatment, veteran cricketer Hanuma Vihari announced his decision to never represent the state team again.
Andhra's journey in the ongoing Ranji Trophy concluded with a narrow defeat to Madhya Pradesh in the quarterfinals, prompting Vihari to speak out against what he perceives as disrespectful treatment by the association.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Vihari criticized the association's attitude towards players, stating that they were expected to comply with directives unquestioningly, undermining their self-respect. Despite his affection for the team and its progress, Vihari asserted that the association's actions hindered growth rather than fostering it.
Vihari, who initially captained the side at the start of the season, relinquished the role after the first match against Bengal. While citing personal reasons for stepping down initially, Vihari now reveals that the association pressured him to resign.
The crux of the issue arose when Vihari reprimanded a player during a match, leading to a complaint from the player's influential father, prompting the association to take action against Vihari. Despite his significant contributions to the team, including leading them to the knockout stages multiple times and representing India in Tests, Vihari found himself sidelined by the association's decision-making.
Reflecting on his dedication to the team, Vihari recalled an instance where he played with a forearm injury, batting left-handed to support the team's cause. Despite feeling embarrassed by the association's actions, Vihari continued to play out of respect for the game and his teammates.
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