Hanuma Vihari Likely to Leave Andhra Before Upcoming Domestic Season
Hanuma Vihari seeks NOC from Andhra to join Tripura for Ranji Trophy, with talks confirmed by Tripura officials.
India batter Hanuma Vihari could be on the move again in domestic cricket. The experienced right-hander has sought a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Andhra Cricket Association to switch teams ahead of the new season.
The Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) has already confirmed discussions with him. TCA member Tapan Lodh said that Vihari is among the players they are looking to sign. If the move goes through, he will represent Tripura in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy.
“I have been thinking about a switch. Tripura has been asking me for some time,” stated Vihari, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Vihari has been a vital figure for Andhra in recent years, scoring 3,013 runs at an average of 44.97, including four centuries and 20 half-centuries. His courage was most famously displayed in the 2022–23 Ranji Trophy quarterfinal when he batted with a fractured wrist to save his team.
“We have recommended to the association a few names to sign as professionals. I cannot disclose the names but I know we are signing Vihari,” Lodh noted.
The 30-year-old has played 131 first-class matches, scoring 9,585 runs, along with 97 List-A appearances. For India, he featured in 16 Tests, including the memorable Sydney Test of 2021, where he battled injury to secure a draw.
Vihari’s domestic career has seen him switch teams before, moving between Hyderabad and Andhra, before finally settling with Andhra again. Now, he may be set for a fresh challenge with Tripura, who are placed in Elite Group C of the Ranji Trophy alongside Bengal, Haryana, and Gujarat.
If signed, his experience will be a major boost for Tripura’s batting lineup and leadership depth.
