Popular Telugu actor Pawan Kalyan has passionately backed Indian and Andhra batsman Hanuma Vihari, expressing strong criticism towards the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA).
Hanuma Vihari recently bid farewell to Andhra Cricket, citing a controversy surrounding his removal from the captaincy. The 30-year-old batsman shared a heartfelt message with his fans on social media.
Vihari disclosed that he was asked to step down as Andhra’s captain last month after the initial matches in the Ranji Trophy 2024 season. The reason behind this decision, he explained, was his reprimand of a player who happened to be the son of a politician. Subsequently, political pressure was exerted on the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) to oust Vihari from the captain’s role.
Pawan Kalyan, a prominent figure in the Telugu film industry turned politician at 52, has voiced his support for Vihari. Expressing his discontent with the treatment meted out to the cricketer, Kalyan criticized the ACA for its handling of the situation. Taking to Twitter, he penned a detailed message addressing the issue.
In solidarity, Andhra Pradesh cricketers rallied behind their teammate, submitting a letter of support to the association. Led by current skipper Ricky Bhui, the players expressed their backing for Vihari in the face of the controversy.
Renowned Telugu actor Pawan Kalya extended his support to Hanuma Vihari. Kalyan emphasized Vihari’s dedication, highlighting the sacrifices the cricketer has made to represent both India and Andhra Pradesh on the field.
Pawan Kalyan tweeted: “Represented our ‘Bharath’ in 16 Test Matches, Scored 5 half Centuries & a Century, His Heroics in Sydney Test against Australia is unforgettable.
As Andhra Pradesh Ranji Team captain, helped Andhra Team to qualify for the knockouts 5 times in the last 7 years. From Playing with a fractured hand to an Injured Hamstring,
@Hanumavihari
always gave his everything for Bharath and for Andhra Pradesh in the domestic circuit.
And today, Andhra Cricket Association forced Vihari to resign from the captaincy just because a YCP Corporator wanted it. A Local YCP Politician with no cricket background is more valuable than an Indian Cricketer & Andhra Pradesh Ranji Team Captain to our Andhra Cricket Association. What a Shame!
Mr.Jagan Mohan Reddy, What is the point of spending crores of money in events like ‘Adudaam Andhra’ when the State Cricket Association humiliates and insults our Andhra Cricket Team Captain?
Dear @Hanumavihari garu, firstly you have been a Champion Player for the State and for the Nation. We thank you for your services and for inspiring young kids and players in Andhra. All Telugu Cricket Loving People feel pained and hurt with the treatment meted out to you by our State Association and We Stand with you.
Last but not the least, Wishing you the very best and I hope you will play for Andhra Again next year with a State Board that knows to respect and treat players with dignity.”
In his extensive Twitter message, Pawan Kalyan expressed solidarity with the embattled cricketer. The actor extended his gratitude to the sidelined Indian batter for his contributions. Concluding his message, Pawan Kalyan conveyed his wish for Vihari to persist in representing Andhra Cricket.
