Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu has raised eyebrows by stepping down from the YSRCP in Andhra Pradesh, just days after joining, citing his commitment to the MI Emirates team in the upcoming ILT20 cricket tournament in the UAE. Rayudu clarified on social media that active politicians are barred from participating in the league, prompting his decision to leave the political arena.
Rayudu took to his official X profile to announce, “I, Ambati Rayudu, will be representing the Mumbai Indians in the upcoming ILt20 from January 20 in Dubai. Which requires me to be politically non-affiliated whilst playing professional sports.”
His return to MI Emirates signifies a homecoming to the Mumbai Indians’ colors after over six years. Rayudu, a crucial member of the Chennai Super Kings in recent years, last represented the Mumbai Indians in the IPL in 2017, contributing to three IPL titles for the franchise. His association with MI lasted eight seasons, starting from 2010.
Rayudu’s political stint with the YSRCP began on December 28, 2023, but his abrupt exit has left many surprised. The former right-arm batter, who played 61 international matches for India, faced controversy during the 2019 ODI World Cup, leading to his exclusion from the national squad. Despite the setback, Rayudu continued to shine in the IPL, achieving success with the Chennai Super Kings.
As he pivots back to professional cricket, Rayudu’s decision has added a new twist to his multifaceted career, leaving fans curious about his performance in the upcoming ILT20.