‘You want to trust the player always….’ – Aakash Chopra backs Hanuma Vihari amidst tussle with Andhra Pradesh State Association

India’s star cricketer Hanuma Vihari and the Andhra Pradesh Cricket Association have recently been involved in a heated dispute. The veteran Indian batter recently claimed that he was asked to step down as Andhra Pradesh’s captain after shouting at a teammate whose father is a politician in Ranji Trophy 2024. Following that, the state organisation denied Vihari’s accusations and claimed that they took action in response to a legitimate complaint from the team’s players.

However, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has taken Hanuma Vihari’s side in this back-and-forth spat.
The former India opener feels that the blame game is happening from both sides, but one should try to put the player first in such a situation. In addition, the well-renowned cricket commentator talks about how Hanuma Vihari played a great role for the state of Andhra Pradesh, and despite so much struggle, he always worked hard for his state team.

“Mud-slinging is happening, the blame game is happening from both sides. From a player’s perspective, 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. Has had an incredible journey. He has helped Andhra qualify. He has got the team together. I would want to believe Hanuma Vihari’s version,” Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

Came out to speak because people have to know the truth: Hanuma Vihari

Meanwhile, Hanuma Vihari also states that he wanted to stand up for himself. The 30-year-old cricketer also reveals how he got support from other players after he was forced to resign from the captaincy.

“I wanted to stand up for my rights. Put out a letter as well stating all the 15 players, excluding myself, and that players have stated they want me as the player and captain of the team. The team trusted me as a leader. I appreciate all the help which I have got in the last 24 hours. Came out to speak because people have to know the truth. That’s why I came forward,” he added further.