The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former cricketer and Congress leader Mohammad Azharuddin regarding a money laundering case connected to the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA). The investigation focuses on the alleged misappropriation of ₹20 crore intended for improving the facilities at the Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad.
Azharuddin, known for his elegant batting and significant contributions to Indian cricket, transitioned into administration after retiring from international cricket. He previously served as the president of the HCA but faced a ban from future elections due to corruption charges.
During his tenure, Azharuddin allegedly mismanaged the ₹20 crore allocated for essential purchases, including diesel generators, firefighting systems, and canopies for the stadium. As the ED expanded its investigation, it summoned Azharuddin to appear before the agency today and address the money laundering allegations.
In a separate development, the Hyderabad government is in discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to construct a new international cricket stadium on the city’s outskirts. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy announced in the assembly that ₹321 crore has been allocated for sports in the 2024-25 state budget. This new stadium could serve as a future home for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), especially since the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium is currently the sole venue hosting IPL matches in the city.
As both cases unfold, cricket fans in Hyderabad eagerly await updates on Azharuddin’s legal situation and the potential for new infrastructure to enhance the city’s cricketing landscape.
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