Hanuma Vihari Granted NOC by Andhra Cricket Association Amid Controversy

The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Indian international cricketer Hanuma Vihari, bringing a tumultuous chapter to a close. Vihari, who has played 16 Test matches for India, announced the development on social media on Tuesday.

“I have been asking for NOC from 2 months, mailed them 4 times. Didn’t give my NOC. Now that things have turned, they’ve issued my NOC immediately. lol,” Vihari wrote, highlighting the protracted and contentious process.

The relationship between Vihari and the ACA has been fraught with tension, culminating in a public spat earlier this year. In March, the ACA issued a show-cause notice to Vihari after he was abruptly removed from his position as captain following just one match in the previous Ranji Trophy season. The 30-year-old cricketer cited “political interference” as the reason behind his resignation from the captaincy, leading to further discord with the state association.

Vihari’s tenure with Andhra has been marked by both achievements and challenges. He was a prominent figure in the team’s setup, but his sudden removal as captain signaled deeper issues within the association. The ACA’s show-cause notice came as a response to Vihari’s outburst, in which he criticized the association’s management and decision-making processes.

The situation escalated when Vihari requested an NOC to facilitate his move to another state association, reportedly with an eye on joining Madhya Pradesh ahead of the 2023-24 season. Despite his repeated requests over two months, the ACA delayed issuing the NOC, exacerbating the conflict.

The issuance of the NOC marks a critical turning point for Vihari, who can now pursue opportunities with other state teams. His decision to seek a move away from Andhra reflects his desire for a more supportive and stable environment to continue his cricketing career.

Vihari’s move is expected to be closely watched, given his experience and pedigree at the national and domestic levels. His potential switch to Madhya Pradesh, a team with a strong cricketing structure, could provide him with the platform to reinvigorate his career and contribute significantly to their success in upcoming tournaments.

The controversy surrounding Vihari’s NOC and the internal dynamics of the ACA have raised questions about the governance and management of state cricket associations. 

The ACA’s eventual decision to issue the NOC, albeit after much delay, suggests a recognition of the need to resolve disputes amicably and prioritize the players’ interests. However, the episode has already cast a shadow over the association’s reputation and may prompt calls for greater transparency and accountability in its operations.

As Hanuma Vihari prepares for the next chapter in his cricketing journey, the focus will be on how he leverages this new opportunity. His experience and skills make him a valuable asset to any team, and his move could also influence other players in similar situations to seek better environments for their professional growth.

For the ACA, this episode serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining positive relationships with players and addressing their concerns promptly and fairly. The association will need to work on rebuilding its image and ensuring that such conflicts do not arise in the future.