• Home
  • Cricket News
  • Players Were Forced Hanuma Vihari Accused Of Pressurising Teammates For Support

'Players Were Forced…,' Hanuma Vihari Accused Of Pressurising Teammates For Support

Vihari will no longer play for AP. (X.com)Vihari will no longer play for AP. (X.com)

Following Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari's firm declaration to abstain from representing Andhra in domestic cricket due to alleged political interference leading to his removal from captaincy, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has responded, alleging that the remaining team members were forced to sign the letter of support in favour of the veteran batter.

Vihari's announcement on Monday, in the aftermath of Andhra's narrow four-run defeat to Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy quarter-final at Indore's Holkar Stadium, triggered a mix of criticism and support. Many came in support of Vihari, questioning ACA management and officials.

In a social media post, Vihari elaborated on the events that led to his decision, including his claimed forced resignation as captain following a confrontation with a player purportedly connected to a politician. 

Despite feeling humiliated, Vihari continued to play out of respect for the game and his teammates.

To bolster his stance, Vihari posted a copy of his statement on social media, along with a photo of his teammates' signatures endorsing his reinstatement as captain.

However, according to a report by India Today, the ACA refutes Vihari's claims, asserting that other players were pressured into signing the letter in his favour.

"Hanuma Vihari has alleged that despite all the players in the team supporting him to continue as the captain, he was removed. In this regard, the concerned players have complained to the Andhra Cricket Association against Vihari," said the ACA, as per the report.

"Some players have complained to the Andhra Cricket Association that they were forced to sign under threats. Andhra Cricket Association will thoroughly investigate all the complaints received and report the facts to the BCCI," it added. 

The ongoing dispute between the ACA and Vihari has reignited discussions regarding political interference in sports administration, prompting calls for transparency and accountability within cricketing bodies.