Former India opener Aakash Chopra backs batter Hanuma Vihari amid his controversy with the Andhra Cricket Association. The row pertains to Andhra asking Vihari to step down as skipper for reportedly using foul language on a a member of the side in Ranji Trophy 2023-24. A back and forth from the two parties has forced Chopra to spill his two cents on the matter.
Chopra believes ‘Hanuma Vihari’s version’
“Mud-slinging is happening, the blame game is happening from both sides. From a players’ fraternity, you want to trust the player always. Hanuma Vihari is not just any player. He batted for Andhra with one hand when he had a fracture in his hand,” Chopra .
“He has had an incredible journey. He has helped Andhra qualify. He has got the team together. I have huge respect for him, whether it was the Sydney match where he played with a torn hamstring and put his career on the line, and then he batted one-handed for Andhra. I would want to actually believe Hanuma Vihari’s version,” the former Indian opener concluded.
Vihari is currently embroiled in a controversy with his Andhra teammate and the association.
Hanuma Vihari & Andhra tussle – A timeline
- January 5: Hanuma Vihari scolds a 17th player ( KN Prudhvi Raj) during Andhra vs Bengal Ranji Trophy 2024 game.
- Hanuma Vihari asked to resign as Andhra skipper after Prudhvi Raj’s complaint
- February 26: Vihari puts out a statement regarding the incident and vows to never play for Andhra again.
- February 26: Prudhvi Raj rebuts Vihari’s statement, mocks him ‘so-called champion’.
- February 26: Andhra association issues statement, orders full inquiry based on complaints from teammates, support staff of foul language used by Vihari and ACA administrators.
- February 26: Vihari reacts, says keep trying
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