Chennai: On a high after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) sealed its fifth IPL title win, middle order batsman Ambati Rayudu, who is a vital cog in CSK’s wheels, today announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.
In his retirement statement released by the CSK, Rayudu said it has been an emotional night that culminated in a special IPL win.
“On that high note, I would like to announce my retirement from all forms of Indian cricket”, Ambati who played his part in the historic win with a nice cameo of 19 in 8 balls, said.
“When I took up the cricket bat as a kid playing with the tennis ball at home, I didn’t imagine the wonderful journey that would follow for more than two decades”, he said.
“I consider it my greatest honour to have represented my country from the Under-19 to the highest level. I still remember the day I received my India cap for the first time in 2013–it is a memory I will cherish forever”, Rayudu said.
“I would like to thank the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA), Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) and the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) for showing faith in my ability and providing me with the opportunity to express myself on the field”, he said.
“I would also like to thank both the IPL teams that I played for–Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings. I am proud to finish my career as a six-time IPL winner”, he added.
Being a part of Mumbai Indians’ first-ever IPL win in 2013 as well as winning the IPL title with Chennai Super Kings in 2018, 2021 and of course, 2023 are memories that will stay with me forever, Rayudu said.
It has also been a great privilege to play with captain MS Dhoni both with CSK and Team India. “We have had some great memories over the last two decades both on and off the field, which I will always cherish”, Rayudu said.
“None of this would have been possible without the support of my dear family, especially my father Sambasiva Rao”, he said.
“Thanks to all my teammates, support staff, fans and all the coaches from my early days – this memorable journey of mine would not have been fulfilling without all of you. Thank you for being by my side through the ups and downs. Your encouragement meant a lot to me”,
he added.
“See you on the other side!” is Rayudu’s parting comment.
