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The ongoing tussle between Kavya Maran co-owned Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) has erupted into a major controversy, with allegations of blackmail and intimidation over complimentary tickets for the IPL 2025 season. At the centre of the conflict is HCA’s demand for additional free tickets beyond the agreed allocation of 3,900 per match, including 50 VIP box tickets. SRH have claimed that HCA officials locked a VIP box during a recent match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), refusing to open it until their demands were met.
SRH threatens relocation
In a strongly worded letter addressed to HCA treasurer CJ Srinivas, SRH team manager Srinath TB accused HCA officials, particularly president Jagan Mohan Rao, of coercive tactics. The letter warned that if these issues persist, SRH is prepared to relocate their home matches to another venue and lodge a formal complaint with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Srinath also alleged that this behaviour has been ongoing since the previous IPL season, creating significant operational challenges for the franchise.
Telangana CM orders probe
The escalating dispute has drawn intervention from Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, who has ordered an inquiry into the matter. Reports suggest that the CM is unhappy with HCA’s handling of the situation and has tasked senior IPS officer Kothakota Sreenivasa Reddy with investigating the allegations. This intervention highlights growing concerns about HCA’s management practices amid ongoing financial disputes and operational inefficiencies.
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HCA denies wrongdoing
In response to SRH’s allegations, HCA has denied any coercive behaviour or blackmail. Officials from the association have stated that their requests for additional tickets were made in good faith and were not intended to disrupt SRH’s operations. They further clarified that there was no personal request from Jagan Mohan Rao to block tickets and expressed willingness to resolve issues amicably.
Impact on SRH’s IPL campaign
The controversy comes at a challenging time for the Sunrisers, who started their IPL 2025 season with a win and two consecutive losses. The added pressure from this dispute may further complicate their efforts on the field as they navigate both internal and external challenges. Fans fear that if SRH relocate their home matches, it could impact Hyderabad’s reputation as an IPL host city and deprive local supporters of live action.
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