Ambati Rayudu, the former Indian cricketer and a prominent figure in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) team during IPL 2023, has expressed his aspiration to venture into politics and serve the people of Andhra Pradesh. After bidding farewell to all forms of cricket following the conclusion of IPL 2023, the 37-year-old athlete aims to contribute to the welfare of his home state.
During a conversation with IANS, Ambati Rayudu revealed his intentions to enter politics in Andhra Pradesh to serve the people. Before formally stepping into the political arena, Rayudu plans to embark on a journey to various parts of the district, seeking to understand the concerns and aspirations of the local population.
“I shall soon enter politics in Andhra Pradesh to serve the people. Before that, I decided to visit different parts of the district to know the people’s pulse & understand their problems,” Rayudu said.
News of Rayudu’s potential entry into politics gained traction after his recent meeting with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy at his office. Speculations and rumours regarding his political affiliations have been circulating in the media, with reports suggesting that the former CSK star may join the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP).
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin, who currently serves as the president of the Congress Committee in the state, has advocated for Ambati Rayudu’s involvement in politics. Azharuddin believes that Rayudu possesses the potential to succeed in elections in Andhra Pradesh, further bolstering his candidacy.
Rayudu, who represented the Indian national team from 2013 to 2019, played 55 ODIs and 6 T20Is. With an impressive average of 47.06, he accumulated 1694 runs in 50 innings, including three centuries and ten half-centuries. In T20Is, Rayudu contributed 42 runs across five matches.
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In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rayudu showcased his skills and consistency while representing both the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings. With an impressive record of 203 matches, he amassed over 4300 runs in the tournament, maintaining an average of 28.05. Rayudu’s IPL journey began with the Mumbai Indians franchise in IPL 2010 and continued until IPL 2017, after which he became an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings from the 2018 to 2023 seasons.
As Ambati Rayudu prepares to make a transition from the cricket field to the political arena, his experience, dedication, and understanding of teamwork gained from his illustrious cricketing career may play a significant role in his journey as he aspires to serve the people of Andhra Pradesh.
