TCA raises red flags over HCA administration

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The Telangana Cricket Association (TCA) has alleged widespread irregularities in the functioning of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), accusing its leadership of violating the BCCI Constitution, judicial directives and principles of transparent sports governance.

In a statement issued on Monday, TCA claimed that the HCA electoral process was compromised by duplicate club registrations. It cited the example of Oxford Blues Cricket Club, alleging that it appears in the electoral register with two separate registrations in Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy districts.

The association also alleged that Sri Chakra Cricket Club, suspended by the HCA Ombudsman in 2018, later regained influence, with its representative becoming HCA president in 2023. The individual was subsequently arrested in a CID case and later suspended, TCA said.

TCA further claimed that the HCA's Acting President, Joint Secretary and Interim CEO are all associated with the same club, Ameerpet Cricket Club, raising concerns over conflict of interest. The association also questioned the appointment of members to the HCA Governing Council, alleging that individuals who had earlier sought a CBI probe into HCA affairs were later accommodated in administrative positions without the approval of the general body.

Citing Supreme Court judgments, including State of Maharashtra vs Sayed Mohammed Masood (2009) and BCCI vs Cricket Association of Bihar (2015), TCA argued that electoral processes based on alleged irregularities are legally unsustainable and that political interference in cricket administration is prohibited. The association also expressed concerns over the HCA's TG20 League, questioning whether it provides equal opportunities to talented cricketers from Telangana districts.

Calling for reforms, TCA said the pending proceedings before the Bombay High Court regarding its recognition under the reformed BCCI Constitution would be crucial for ensuring transparent and accountable cricket administration in Telangana. The HCA's response to the allegations was not immediately available.