Rayudu Recalls Mumbai Indians Success, Calls Chennai Super Kings Stint ‘More Special’

Former Indian batter Ambati Rayudu took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about his illustrious career in the Indian Premier League (IPL), highlighting his time with Mumbai Indians as a significant journey while deeming his stint at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as more special.

Rayudu commenced his IPL journey in 2010 with the Mumbai Indians and remained with the franchise till the 2017 edition, securing three IPL titles in 2013, 2015, and 2017. His shift to CSK occurred ahead of the 2018 season.

During the 2018 season with CSK, Rayudu showcased his finest form with the bat, accumulating 602 runs in 16 innings at an average of 43, including his highest score of an unbeaten 100. This exceptional performance coincided with CSK clinching the trophy after serving a two-year suspension due to a key official’s involvement in spot-fixing and betting.

Rayudu continued his association with CSK, contributing significantly to the team’s victories in the IPL 2021 and 2023 titles before retiring from the league post their triumph over Gujarat Titans in the rain-affected finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

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Reflecting on his versatility within a team setup, Rayudu expressed pride in his adaptability across various batting positions, from opening to the middle and lower middle order, emphasizing his commitment to team contribution.

While acknowledging his eight-year tenure with Mumbai Indians as a great journey marked by three IPL victories and two Champions League trophies, Rayudu highlighted the special nature of his time at CSK. He admitted to the initial oddity of wearing CSK’s yellow attire and facing his former team, Mumbai Indians, a mere distance away in practice sessions.

Rayudu also shared insights about MS Dhoni’s leadership legacy, acknowledging Dhoni’s ability to bring out the best in players across formats, domestically and internationally. He praised Dhoni’s astute decision-making and success, recognizing his unmatched impact in Indian cricket.

Rayudu acknowledged occasional disagreements with Dhoni’s decisions but conceded that Dhoni’s track record of success leaves little room for questioning his judgment in cricketing matters.