Hanuma Vihari Signs with Tripura for 2025-26 Season, Eyes Fresh Challenge
India Batter Keen to Pile Up Runs and Help a Young Team Grow
India batter Hanuma Vihari will represent Tripura in the upcoming 2025-26 domestic season, joining as one of their three professional players. Vihari, who was recently named Player of the Tournament in the Andhra Premier League, received a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Andhra Cricket Association to make the switch.
A Move Driven by Desire to Play All Formats
Vihari revealed that the decision was primarily motivated by his wish to continue playing across all formats.
“I was keen on other opportunities since I believe I’m good enough to play all three formats,” Vihari told ESPNcricinfo. “Andhra made it clear they were looking at youngsters for the T20 format. That was why I decided it didn’t make sense to play even the 50-over format, so I sat out of the Vijay Hazare Trophy as well. I also wanted to play in a new environment.”
Fallout with Andhra and Past Uncertainty
Vihari’s move also brings closure to a turbulent association with Andhra cricket.
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In 2023-24, he stepped down as captain after alleging political interference and felt “humiliated and embarrassed” by the treatment he received.
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Ahead of the 2024-25 season, he was in talks with Madhya Pradesh for a switch but stayed back after persuasion from Andhra’s political leadership, a decision that left the MPCA upset.
This time, however, Vihari felt the timing and opportunity with Tripura were ideal.
New Chapter with Tripura
Although not guaranteed captaincy yet, Vihari is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the team’s direction.
“As a senior player, I’ll contribute whatever the team expects of me, from a leadership standpoint, whether I’m captain or not. They’ve got some decent players. I wanted to play in a team where I can build [the squad], and be part of a setup that is hungry to challenge the bigger teams.”
Hunger for Runs, Not Comebacks
Vihari last played a Test for India three years ago but insists he’s focused on performance rather than international comebacks.
“My challenge is to take the team through. After 14-15 years of first-class cricket, I’ve certainly got that experience that I want to pass on. But I’m not thinking of a comeback just yet. It’s too far away. I want to score runs, important runs, and then take the team through. More than anything, I just want to enjoy my cricket and score lots of runs.”
In recent years, he has also dabbled in commentary and coaching, including a stint with the Madurai Panthers in TNPL 2024.
