Ambati Rayudu played his last game in IPL on 29 May in the final of the 16th edition of the competition. He played an excellent cameo of 19 runs off eight balls, including one four and two sixes. Eventually, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) chased down 171 runs in 15 overs and won their fifth title.
However, it was Rayudu’s third IPL title with CSK while he has now six titles to his name throughout his IPL playing days. But, now a statement from this veteran batter went viral as he said that Suresh Raina made this CSK franchise with his hands. Listening to that, fans were left confused and surprised.
“I can smile for the rest of my life.” - Ambati Rayudu
The former CSK player, Suresh Raina shared a heartwarming message on Twitter for Rayudu. He wrote: “Happy Retirement brotherman @RayuduAmbati. It has been an honor to share the field with you & get to know you both on and off-field. Your immense contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark that will never be forgotten. Wishing you the best always (with a red heart emoji).”
After the final, Rayudu said: “It's a fairytale finish. I couldn't have asked for more. I'm fortunate to have played in really great sides. I can smile for the rest of my life. All the hard work I've done in the last 30 years, I'm happy I got to finish on this note. I would really like to thank my family, my father. Without them this wouldn't have been possible.”
He even shared a tweet for fans as he wrote: “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.” On 30 May, he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.
Here is how fans have reacted to the statement by Ambati Rayudu:
Still they kicked him out just for one bad season..
— Surya (@Surya52927580) May 30, 2023
Raina more influential for CSK than Dhoni
— james (@jrider21x) May 30, 2023
Ye IPL puraan bandh Karo ab
— iam_AB 🇮🇳 (@Defi_AB) May 30, 2023
First time someone gives credit to mr IPL
— D E E P U 🇮🇳 (@amdeepudeeps) May 30, 2023
Rayudu knows ball
— Raina forever (@Sportsanhum) May 30, 2023
Bodied thala 😭 pic.twitter.com/J8WP5deuWE
— Ackerman (@NowCaptainRohit) May 30, 2023
Chinna thala 🥹
— Sai Satish (@Saisuniversee) May 30, 2023
Legend 💛💛
— Priyanshu (@im_Priyanshu_B7) May 30, 2023
Fairplay Award >>> IPL trophy 👍👍
— DC HYPE (@17xDC) May 30, 2023