It took only around two months’ time for former India middle-order batsman Ambati Rayudu to make a 360-degree turn on his retirement. The 33-year-old had called it quits from all formats of the game in the first week of July after the 2019 World Cup snub.
On August 29, Thursday, this is what Rayudu wrote to the Hyderabad Cricket Association’s CoA:
“I (Ambati Rayudu) would like to bring to your kind notice that I would like to come out of retirement and play cricket in all formats.”
Soon after that, the HCA’s CoA sent out a mail stating, “This is to inform you that Ambati Rayudu has withdrawn his announcement of retirement and has made himself available for the shorter format of the game for HCA in 2019-20.”
As per reports, a couple of senior cricketers played a significant role in counseling Rayudu during his ‘tough time.’ The right-hander then went on to realize that he had made an impulsive move.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank CSK, VVS Laxman and Noel David who have been very supportive during the tough time and are instrumental in making me realize that I have enough cricket left in me and that the decision to retire was taken in an emotional state and haste. I am looking forward to a wonderful season ahead with a very talented Hyderabad team and help the team realize its full potential. I will be available from September 10 to join the Hyderabad team,” Rayudu communicated via email.
HCA Chief Selector Noel David expressed his happiness over the current Chennai Super Kings and former Mumbai Indians player’s comeback. “It is not an easy decision to make. It takes a lot of humility and courage to admit a mistake. I am really excited about Rayudu’s comeback. There is still a lot of cricket left in him and I am sure that he will be a big boon to Hyderabad cricket. He has my full backing and it’s now up to him to help the team reach greater heights,” David was quoted as saying to TOI.
“I was able to speak to him and counsel him. I told him that he had much more to give back to the game. I have known him for a long time. He is not only a great cricketer but also a good human being. It’s just that he was not able to handle the disappointment and reacted in haste.”
“I am happy that he will play for the state again. The boys will benefit from his presence in the dressing room and the field. His experience of playing at the highest level is sure to benefit the team too. Hyderabad cricket will be richer by Rayudu’s contribution as he can now focus on grooming youngsters and building a great team for the years to come.”
“We are looking forward to building a formidable squad this season and Rayudu is an important cog in the wheel. It’s been a long time since Hyderabad has won the Ranji Trophy. We are keen on making a mark this season,” he signed off.
