In a shocking turn of events, Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) President Jagan Mohan Rao has been arrested in connection with a major ticket scam during IPL 2025. As reported by NDTV Sports, the arrest was made by the Crime Investigation Department (CID) in Hyderabad on Wednesday, July 9.
Ticket Scam at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium
The scandal involves irregular ticket distribution during matches held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, the home ground for SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). According to the allegations, Jagan Mohan Rao and some other HCA officials forced SRH to provide extra tickets, which were then sold illegally for personal profit.
These tickets were reportedly black-marketed, violating both the rules of the association and fair practice during one of the biggest sporting events in India.
Accusations from SRH and Government Action
Earlier in the IPL 2025 season, the SunRisers Hyderabad franchise accused Rao of intimidation and blackmail, demanding more complimentary passes than permitted. SRH even took the matter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL Governing Council, seeking immediate action.
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In response, the Telangana government ordered a CID probe, and soon after, an FIR was filed against Rao and his team. This led to his recent arrest, adding another layer of controversy to an already challenging season for SRH.
SRH Misses Playoffs in IPL 2025
Apart from the off-field trouble, the SunRisers had a disappointing run on the field. After reaching the IPL 2024 final, SRH couldn’t repeat their form this year and finished sixth on the points table.
They began their 2025 campaign on a high note with a solid 44-run victory against Rajasthan Royals, but a four-match losing streak early in the season hurt their momentum. Although they won their last three league games, it wasn’t enough to make the top four.
With only six wins and 13 points from 14 games, SRH missed out on a playoff spot. The team now looks to rebuild and come back stronger in IPL 2026.
A Look Back at SRH’s Past Glory
Despite their struggles in 2025, SRH has a strong history. The franchise won the IPL title in 2016, defeating Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final. They have also been regular playoff contenders in previous seasons, making this year’s exit especially tough for fans.
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