'What is Wrong With Them…,' Hanuma Vihari’s Friend Fires Shots At ACA

image-lt46bc47Vihari played his last international game in 2022 [X.com]

Former Rajasthan cricketer and long-time friend of Hanuma Vihari, Robin Bist, has stepped forward to defend Vihari, alleging that the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has harboured animosity against the out-of-favour Indian Test cricketer for the past three to four years.

Vihari, currently out of the Indian team, shocked the cricketing community by stating that he would never represent Andhra Pradesh again. 

He made startling allegations against his teammate KN Prudhviraj, claiming he was ousted as the captain of the team for reprimanding a player who happens to be the son of a politician. 

According to Vihari, the player complained to his father, leading to Vihari's forced resignation by the ACA, leaving him feeling 'humiliated' and devoid of 'self-respect'.

These revelations came in the aftermath of Andhra Pradesh's narrow four-run loss against Madhya Pradesh in the quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy 2023-24, marking the conclusion of their campaign in the tournament. 

In an interview with Mirror Now, Bist shed light on the troubled situation within the ACA over the past three to four years, where Vihari has reportedly been singled out.

"Such incidents have been recurring with Hanuma for the past 3-4 years in Andhra. Most selectors seem to have a bias against him. He is one of the most sincere cricketers I've ever known. I fail to understand what is wrong with the ACA,"  said Robin Bist.

"If I were to assess his captaincy, I have seldom seen a better leader than him. He is exceptional on the field, always giving his utmost. He desires success for every cricketer, both for the team and individually,"  he added.

Vihari started the season as captain of the Andhra Pradesh team, leading them in the first game against Bengal before being relieved of his captaincy duties. Ricky Bhui was appointed as his successor. 

Despite the leadership transition, the right-handed batter played an important role in Andhra's journey to the quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy, amassing 522 runs from eight matches.

Since Vihari spoke out, the cricketing fraternity has rallied behind one of the heroes of the Sydney Test win in 2022. India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has invited Vihari to his show to speak on the matter.

Following an invitation to appear on Ravichandran Ashwin's YouTube show, Vihari is expected to provide further insights and shed light on the entire ordeal soon. 

Throughout his career, the veteran batter has managed to steer clear of controversies, making his recent revelation about the ill-treatment by the Andhra Cricket Association a significant departure from his usual stance.