Mohammad Azharuddin is deeply upset after learning that his name will be removed from the North Stand of Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
Azharuddin’s Heartbreak Over Removal from Stand at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium
Mohammad Azharuddin, former India captain, has expressed deep pain and heartbreak after the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) decided to remove his name from the North Pavilion Stand at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal. Azharuddin has condemned the move, calling it a disgrace and urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to step in and address the matter.
The decision to erase Azharuddin’s name came after a formal complaint was lodged by Lord’s Cricket Club, a local entity. The petition raised allegations of favoritism during Mohammad tenure as the president of the HCA, accusing him of engaging in decision-making that demonstrated a conflict of interest. The complaint highlighted several actions taken by Azharuddin, which were perceived to be self-serving and undermined the principles of fairness and impartiality that should have been expected from someone in his influential position.
Justice V Eswaraiah, the Ethics Officer and Ombudsman for the HCA, issued the directive after reviewing the allegations. Mohammad , known for his leadership on the field, is now fighting to preserve his legacy and has called on the BCCI to investigate the matter to ensure fairness in the decision.
‘It’s hearbreaking’, says Azharuddin
Mohammad , the former Indian cricket captain, has voiced his immense disappointment and regret after the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) removed his name from the North Pavilion Stand at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Speaking to Gulf News, Azharuddin expressed his pain, saying, “It’s heartbreaking to see individuals with little to no understanding of the game now in positions to teach and lead. It’s a complete disgrace to the sport.”
Azharuddin has announced his intention to pursue legal action, calling the situation unjust and urging the BCCI to intervene. He also highlighted that the issue was part of a broader pattern of poor governance, referring to a previous dispute between the HCA and Sunrisers Hyderabad over passes.
As part of the directive, the HCA was instructed to remove Azharuddin’s name from tickets for matches during the IPL 2025 season. This is a significant decision, especially with the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium hosting several key matches, including home games for Sunrisers Hyderabad and critical playoff fixtures.