Simmering tensions have erupted in the Andhra Pradesh cricket team after their agonising 4-run loss to Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy quarter-finals on Monday.Star batter Hanuma Vihari launched sensational accusations towards the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA), claiming he was forced to resign as captain following an altercation with a player who happened to be the son of a prominent politician.Vihari took to Instagram to reveal the circumstances behind his controversial removal from the captaincy in January. This prompted fellow Andhra player Prudhvi Raj to fire back on social media, presenting a different version of events and accusing Vihari of verbal abuse.Eager to quell the escalating war of words, the ACA released an official statement laying several allegations towards the India international.The board claimed Vihari had personally verbally abused Raj during a Ranji game this season, with the affected player filing an official complaint.Keep trying!! 👏🏻👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/Wggq0cFisU— Hanuma vihari (@Hanumavihari) February 26, 2024Regarding the captaincy change, ACA said the senior selection committee had proposed a new skipper in January due to Viharis limited availability as an India prospect. Vihari had apparently accepted this decision gracefully at the time.Additionally, the association alleged receiving complaints from players, coaches and administrators about Viharis frequent use of foul language and abusive behaviour.ACA also accused the batter of repeatedly seeking a No Objection Certificate to switch state teams, only to quickly reverse his decision.The board concluded by pledging a full inquiry into the various complaints raised.This bitter war of words has created deep divisions within the Andhra camp. With reputations damaged on both sides, rebuilding trust looks a difficult task following this weeks traumatic Ranji exit.
