Ranji Trophy 2022-23: Hanuma Vihari to play for Andhra

The 28-year-old Vihari informed Sportstar that Andhra wanted him to play for them and that he was also keen to move over this season.

Hanuma Vihari during a Test match in 2020. | Photo Credit: MARK BAKER

India middle-order batsman Hanuma Vihari will play for Andhra in the coming Ranji Trophy season.

The 28-year-old Vihari informed Sportstar that Andhra wanted him to play for them and that he was also keen to move over this season.

“There is no specific reason. I have had good memories with Andhra when I played last time (he played for Hyderabad for one season last year after switching over from Andhra). I wanted to help the team do well and be part of something really creditable in the Ranji campaign,” Vihari said.

The star batter, who played 16 Tests, scoring 889 runs at an average of 33.56 including a century, said he would continue to keep working hard to be consistent at the highest level.

“Well, my next assignment is leading South Zone in the Duleep Trophy which is very important for me as I prepare for the season ahead,” said the Hyderabadi who is now playing in the TNCA League in Chennai for Nelson Cricket Club.

“Definitely, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is one event which I am really eager to play and perform really well. I am keen to make a mark in white-ball cricket too as I always believe I can be good in all formats of the game,” Vihari said.

“It is understandable that we don’t have too many Tests this year because of the T20 World Cup in Australia. But from my side, I am gearing up to be ready to accept any challenge when I get a chance to play for India,” he said.