Ambati Rayudu has been a regular in the Indian Premier League since his last appearance for India in 2019. He has become one of India’s most underestimated performers over the years, in both the Indian T20 competition as well as on the domestic calendar.
Despite retiring from all formats of cricket in July 2019, the 36-year-old reversed his decision and declared himself eligible for selection 2 months later. The hitter has just voiced a wish to continue playing for another 3 years. He even stated that he was attempting to improve his fitness.
“I would love to keep playing till I am in good form and fit. I will be ready for the next cycle, which is three years and I am working hard on my fitness,” said Ambati Rayudu. The Andhra Pradesh hitter further stated that he was in terrific form after participating in the recently ended Vijay Hazare Trophy.
“I recently played the Vijay Hazare Trophy which is five one-day games in six days which I got through well. I am in good shape and I hope to continue to play at least for the next three years,” he added. The right-handed hitter has been a mainstay for CSK in the IPL since 2018.
Dhoni Bhai has had the impact of getting the best out of me: Rayudu
In addition, it was through this tournament that he was able to play limited-overs cricket with Team India. Considering his progress, Rayudu never appeared in a red-ball match for his nation. As a result, he shed light on the subject.
“It is a great honor to represent India and I am happy that I represented India in the white ball format-ODI and T20s. I feel unfortunate about missing out on the Test cap. But I don’t regret it as I have given my best. I am happy for the opportunities I got to represent the team and that in itself is a great honor.” he said. The former Indian hitter has featured 55 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and six Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for India.
Rayudu furthermore voices about his time with Dhoni and CSK, “My stint with CSK has been a very special one. We have won two IPLs till now and played one final. 2018 was a very special season, a comeback season for CSK, and us winning the IPL that year made it very special,” Rayudu.
“Dhoni Bhai has had the impact of getting the best out of me, not only me but he has an impact on everyone and brings the best performance out of everyone in the team. That is why he is the best captain India has ever had,” Rayudu said.
