Veteran Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu is gearing up for a new chapter in his illustrious career as he joins the Joburg Super Kings for the second season of SA20, the South African T20 league. With his remarkable experience and cricketing prowess, Rayudu is set to make his mark on the international stage again in a different corner of the world.
Maintaining a strong and enduring bond with the Super Kings franchise, Rayudu’s association with the team dates back to his six-year stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This connection has transcended geographical boundaries as he embarks on this exciting journey with the Joburg Super Kings.
Rayudu’s journey into global T20 leagues took a turn earlier when he initially announced his participation with the Texas Super Kings in the Major League Cricket (MLC) inaugural edition. However, he had to withdraw from the tournament due to personal reasons. While speculation arose regarding the role of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in his decision, the governing body recently mandated a cooling-off period of one year for players before participating in foreign leagues.
However, in a surprising turn of events, just a month later, he signed up to play for the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season.
Now, Rayudu is on the verge of joining the Joburg Super Kings, as discussions continue between the player, Faf du Plessis (captain), Stephen Fleming (coach), and Kasi Vishwanathan, one of the representatives of the Super Kings.
St Kitts & Nevis Patriots chairman Mahesh Ramani expressed his enthusiasm about having Rayudu as part of the team for the upcoming CPL season. Ramani highlighted Rayudu’s extensive experience and championship-winning pedigree as qualities that would significantly contribute to developing the team’s younger players. Rayudu’s presence is expected to be pivotal in the team’s quest to secure their second CPL title.
“One minor injury, you will play IPL but not for India”: Kapil Dev’s Scathing Attack At Indian Star Player
“I’m pleased to inform Patriots fans that Ambati Rayudu has been signed as one of our overseas players for the 2023 season. Ambati’s extensive experience, having won multiple championships with various teams during his illustrious career in India, will undoubtedly enhance the development of our young players as we aim for our second CPL title in 2023,” Ramani said.
The Caribbean Premier League’s upcoming edition is slated to commence on August 16, with the Saint Lucia Kings facing off against the Jamaica Tallawahs in the opening match. St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, with Rayudu in their ranks, will kickstart their campaign on August 19 against the Trinbago Knight Riders.
As Ambati Rayudu continues to make his mark on the global cricketing landscape, his journey from Chennai to Johannesburg and beyond is a testament to his enduring passion for the sport and ability to adapt and excel on diverse cricketing platforms.