Indian test batsman Hanuma Vihari’s public spat with the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) seems to have reached a conclusion. The ACA has finally issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Vihari, allowing him to switch state teams. With this, it ends a 3-month-long saga of friction between player and association.
Vihari can now play for any state in domestic cricket
The news was confirmed by Vihari himself on social media, hinting at some frustration with the process. “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.
The public spat stemmed from Vihari’s unceremonious removal as Andhra captain after just one match in the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season. The 30-year-old alleged “political interference” within the ACA, prompting his resignation from the leadership role. The ACA responded with a show-cause notice, but Vihari countered by requesting the NOC, effectively seeking a transfer.
Vihari’s next destination remains unknown, but his talent and experience are sure to attract interest from several state associations. The technically sound batter will be keen to focus on his game and potentially add to his 16 Test appearances for India.