Special Correspondent
Hyderabad: Once again, the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) finds itself in the spotlight — not for nurturing talent or building infrastructure, but for yet another controversy that reeks of carelessness and questionable governance. From flawed selections to opaque spending, from poor logistics to now the alleged supply of substandard player uniforms, the rot seems to run deep.
The latest storm is over something as basic as players’ whites — the trousers and shirts that symbolize the dignity of the game. Several club secretaries and parents have complained that the quality of these uniforms is shockingly poor, far below the standards expected at the state level. The issue may appear minor, but it exposes a larger problem — a culture of disregard for due process and accountability.
Stakeholders have raised pointed questions that the HCA cannot wish away:
- Was a tender committee properly constituted for the procurement of uniforms and cricket kits?
- If so, why has its recommendation not been made public on the HCA’s website?
- Were all vendors given fair consideration, or were some bids quietly brushed aside?
- Was the lowest qualified tender accepted, as per standard norms?
- Are reports true that the chosen vendor delivered inferior material, as alleged by several players?
- Why are teams being lodged in substandard accommodations when BCCI protocols clearly mandate four- or five-star facilities for state players?
- Who authorizes these bookings, and under what authority, if such decisions are being taken by individuals beyond their designated roles?
These are not idle accusations. They stem from the growing frustration of parents, players, and club officials who see a pattern of favouritism and mismanagement in every corner of the association.
The Telangana High Court had appointed Justice Naveen Rao to oversee HCA’s affairs precisely to prevent such lapses. It is time this oversight translates into real accountability. Every decision of the Apex Council — whether it involves team selection, appointments, or expenditure — must stand the test of transparency. Those found guilty of procedural violations or vested interests should be barred from holding any position or assignment in the HCA for at least three to five years.
The decline of Hyderabad’s women’s team is another red flag. After showing consistent improvement in recent seasons, its sudden slump cannot be dismissed as coincidence. Questions over selection integrity and staff appointments need honest answers.
The HCA’s credibility now hinges on its willingness to act. Cricket in Hyderabad deserves better — merit over manipulation, and professionalism over personal fiefdoms.
