Home
Ambati Rayudu, the former Indian cricket stalwart, recently shared insights into his maiden journey in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), drawing parallels and contrasts between the CPL and the iconic Indian Premier League (IPL). Notably, Rayudu's entry into the CPL marked him as the second Indian cricketer to grace the men's CPL, following in the footsteps of Pravin Tambe.
Rayudu's cricketing journey took an interesting turn after his retirement from IPL and domestic cricket, post the Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) spectacular championship victory in 2023. Initially, he was set to join the Texas Super Kings for the debut season of Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA, a team closely affiliated with CSK. However, due to unforeseen personal circumstances, Rayudu opted out of the MLC, even though he was a marquee signing for the franchise. His unexpected decision coincided with rumors regarding a possible cooling-off regulation by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Such a policy would limit recently retired players from immediately venturing into overseas leagues.
Rayudu's CPL debut came when he stepped onto the field for the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots on August 19, facing the Trinbago Knight Riders. Unfortunately, rain played spoilsport, preventing Rayudu from showcasing his batting prowess.
Speaking about his CPL experience, Rayudu shared, "I have heard some really good things about the league, especially the standard of cricket that's played here. I am happy to be part of the St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots."
Further elaborating on his choice to partake in the CPL, he mentioned how cricketers Kieron Pollard and former CSK mate Dwayne Bravo often sang praises of the CPL. "Pollard and Bravo used to talk a lot about the CPL. This is the first time I'm playing in a dressing room without any Indians, so that's a bit strange and it feels a bit different but they're really nice people. They have been very warm."
Rayudu added a touch of humor, mentioning the cultural differences, "Playing in the CPL is a very different experience as compared to playing in India. They have a lot of music and a lot of fun, it's all a bit new to me but I'm really enjoying it so far."
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Watch: Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan make a mess of easy run out as latter crashes into stumps
R Praggnanandhaa-Carlsen's first game of FIDE Chess World Cup final ends in a stalemate
