'I am ready to do everything for Andhra' - Hanuma Vihari has change in heart to play for home state

Indian batter Hanuma Vihari has decided to continue representing his home state Andhra Pradesh in domestic cricket, reversing his earlier decision to leave the team. This change of heart comes five months after Vihari's public announcement to part ways with Andhra cricket, citing political interference and loss of self-respect.

Vihari's decision is deeply rooted in the recent political shifts in Andhra Pradesh. With the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) now having the power, state cricket has undergone significant changes.

The previous administration of the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) had controversially revoked Vihari's captaincy, leading to his initial decision to leave. The right-hand batter has played 16 Tests for India and expressed his commitment towards Andhra cricket.

"I have played for India representing Andhra, so my commitment to state cricket remains strong. There were reasons for my initial decision to leave, but I have been persuaded to stay. I feel valued for my contributions and am happy to continue playing for Andhra," Vihari told Cricbuzz.

The 30-year-old cricketer's return is not just about playing; he's also open to leading the team again. He has featured in 37 games for Andhra and captained the team in all of them before he resigned. "If given captaincy, I will be happy to lead the state," he added.

Also read: Hanuma Vihari takes U-turn, rejoins Andhra after chat with new ruling party

I continued playing this season out of respect for the game: Hanuma Vihari

Vihari's earlier departure was marked by strong words and emotions. He cited political interference in team selection and management. However, the recent political changes have brought about a reconciliation.

"I will never play for Andhra. I have lost my self-respect. I never made any personal remarks to the player. However, the association deemed the player's importance greater than mine, despite my contributions to Andhra's cricketing success over the years, including representing India in 16 Tests (sic). I felt embarrassed, but I continued playing this season out of respect for the game," he said at that time.

The cricketer acknowledged the support he received from key political figures during the turbulent period. The right-hand batter even revealed he is ready to give everything for Andhra cricket.

"Mr. Chandrababu Naidu (Chief Minister of AP), Mr. Pawan Kalyan (Deputy Chief Minister), and Lokesh Naidu (a minister and son of Chandrababu) immediately expressed their solidarity with me. After the recent elections and change of government, Lokesh requested that I stay on, and I have agreed. I am ready to do everything for Andhra," Vihari concluded.

Also read: Nitish Reddy thanks Hanuma Vihari for being guiding light in early days

Following the government change, all ACA office-bearers have resigned en masse. A special general meeting is scheduled for August 4 in Vijayawada to address these resignations and potentially call for new elections.