New Delhi: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has threatened to shift its home ground for IPL 2025 due to an ongoing conflict with the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) over ticket sales. The franchise has accused HCA officials of interference and mismanagement, escalating tensions between the two entities.
SRH vs HCA: A Growing Dispute
According to reports from the Times of India, the dispute dates back to 2024. The controversy intensified after the SRH vs LSG match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium on March 27, 2025. The SRH team management claims that HCA officials wrongfully occupied VIP boxes, violating contractual agreements.In a strongly worded letter to HCA Treasurer C.J. Srinivas, SRH’s team manager expressed frustration over repeated interference from HCA, particularly targeting President Jagan Mohan Rao. The franchise has made it clear that it will not tolerate any undue pressure from the association.
HCA Accused of Rule Violations
SRH has signed agreements with multiple stakeholders, committing to provide 3,900 tickets to beneficiaries. Out of these, 50 VIP box tickets are designated for HCA. However, the association allegedly demanded 20 additional VIP box tickets, which SRH refused. Following this, HCA officials reportedly occupied the VIP box during the SRH vs LSG match without proper authorization.
SRH Warns of Home Ground Shift
The SRH team manager has accused HCA President Jagan Mohan Rao of repeatedly threatening the team staff over ticket disputes. According to SRH, this is not the first instance of blackmail concerning free tickets. In the letter to the HCA Treasurer, SRH has made it clear that if the association’s behavior does not improve, the franchise will consider shifting its home ground. Additionally, SRH has warned of escalating the issue to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) if necessary.
What’s Next?
With IPL 2025 approaching, the ongoing friction between SRH and HCA could lead to significant changes. If SRH follows through on its threat, Hyderabad might lose its status as the team’s home ground. Cricket fans and stakeholders will closely watch the developments as BCCI’s intervention could determine the final outcome.