In a heartfelt tribute, Robin Uthappa lauded his former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammate, Ambati Rayudu, after the announcement of his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). Uthappa expressed his admiration for Rayudu, labeling him as one of the most underrated cricketers produced by India and a player who should have represented the country in Test cricket.
Speaking to Jio Cinema, Uthappa described Rayudu as an astute student of the game, someone who possesses an in-depth understanding of cricket. He emphasized that Rayudu’s value as a team player was immeasurable, and every team would have cherished having him in their squad. Uthappa’s admiration for Rayudu traces back to their junior cricket days when Rayudu’s dominance left a lasting impression.
As news of Rayudu’s retirement spread, Twitter erupted with messages and reactions from fans. Rayudu had previously announced his retirement after IPL 2022, but he made a comeback this season. This time, however, he emphasized that there would be no U-turn, making the IPL 2023 final his swansong.
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Having represented two iconic franchises, Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, Rayudu enjoyed a remarkable IPL career. Despite a relatively quiet season this year, scoring 139 runs in 11 innings, his overall contribution remains commendable. In a total of 203 matches since the inaugural IPL season in 2008, Rayudu amassed 4,329 runs at an average of 28.29 and a strike rate of 127+. Along the way, he registered one century and 22 half-centuries, making him a valuable asset to any team.
Rayudu played a crucial role in CSK’s triumph in IPL 2018, where he scored an impressive 602 runs, including a century and three fifties. His performances played a significant part in the team’s success, etching his name in the hearts of CSK fans forever.
As Ambati Rayudu bids farewell to the IPL, cricket enthusiasts acknowledge his unwavering commitment, selflessness, and dedication to the sport. His retirement serves as a poignant reminder of the impact he has made throughout his career, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.