Ambati Rayudu, the prominent batsman of the Chennai Super Kings, has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League. In his official statement on Twitter, Rayudu confirmed that the final match of the 2023 edition against the Gujarat Titans will mark the end of his IPL journey. Having joined CSK in 2018, Rayudu has been an integral part of the team and has won two IPL titles with the franchise. His IPL career commenced with the Mumbai Indians back in 2010.
Expressing gratitude for his time in the league, Rayudu tweeted, “Two great teams – MI and CSK, 204 matches, 14 seasons, 11 playoffs, 8 finals, and 5 trophies. Hopefully, we will secure the 6th tonight. It has been an incredible journey. I have decided that tonight’s final will be my last game in the IPL. I truly enjoyed playing this wonderful tournament. Thank you all. No turning back.”
2 great teams mi nd csk,204 matches,14 seasons,11 playoffs,8 finals,5 trophies.hopefully 6th tonight. It’s been quite a journey.I have decided that tonight’s final is going to be my last game in the Ipl.i truly hav enjoyed playing this great tournament.Thank u all. No u turn 😂🙏
— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) May 28, 2023
Rayudu experienced his first taste of success in the IPL in 2013 when he clinched the title with the Mumbai Indians, which was also the franchise’s inaugural triumph. He went on to secure two more titles in 2015 and 2017 before moving to CSK the following year.
His time with CSK under the leadership of MS Dhoni played a significant role in establishing Rayudu as a formidable power-hitter. In the yellow jersey, he achieved some of his highest strike rates in the IPL, notably scoring at 149.75 during his debut season with CSK when they emerged victorious in 2018. Interestingly, that season also marked his best in terms of runs, with Rayudu amassing 602 runs in 16 matches. In the 2021 season, he continued his success, contributing to CSK’s title win with a strike rate of 151.17 in 16 matches.
The preceding year was a forgettable one for both Rayudu and CSK. While the Super Kings finished 9th in the standings, the veteran Indian batsman had even announced his retirement midway through the season. However, he later reconsidered his decision and continued representing the side.
In 2023, Rayudu’s batting performances have been inconsistent, but he has retained the faith of MS Dhoni, appearing in all 15 matches thus far. He has scored 139 runs in the season at a strike rate of 132.28.
Notably, Rayudu joins the elite group of players who have participated in 200 or more IPL matches. With 4239 runs to his name, he currently holds the 12th position on the list of the tournament’s highest run-scorers.
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