In a surprise move just one day before their pivotal Ranji Trophy 2024 clash against powerhouse Mumbai, Andhra Pradesh has witnessed a change in leadership. Hanuma Vihari, the seasoned middle-order batsman, has relinquished the captaincy, handing the reins to senior batter Ricky Bhui.
“He (Hanuma Vihari) has some personal reasons and wants to focus on his batting,” Bhui explained after a day of net practice as per The Hindu. The announcement, while abrupt, didn’t dampen the spirits of the Andhra camp. Bhui, with his decade-long experience playing alongside the team, assures everyone that “it’s not a big deal.”
“We have the momentum after the first-innings lead against Bengal,” Bhui emphasized. “The key is to build on it. Who wears the captain’s armband doesn’t matter.”
This sudden shift comes just after Hanuma Vihari opened the season with a confident 51 against Bengal. According to sources, he informed the national selectors of his decision Wednesday night, which subsequently trickled down to the team.
Hanuma Vihari – Andhra great
This development adds another layer to Vihari’s off-season, which saw him flirt with the idea of leaving Andhra before ultimately being retained. He was expected to spearhead the team’s charge after their impressive quarter-final run in the previous Ranji season.
Now, the onus shifts to Ricky Bhui, the experienced campaigner who returns to familiar territory. Having captained Andhra across formats in the past, he brings stability and a deep understanding of the team’s dynamics.
As Andhra braces for a crucial encounter against Mumbai, the leadership change presents an intriguing twist. Can Bhui rally the troops and build on their positive momentum? Hanuma Vihari focus on his batting could hold the key to unlocking his full potential at the crease. This Ranji clash promises to be a compelling test for both the new skipper and the Andhra unit as a whole.
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