Ambati Rayudu explains decision to leave politics days after joining YSR Congress Party

The sudden exit of former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu from the YSR Congress Party, just nine days after joining, did surprise many. Rayudu, one of the most consistent batters in the India Premier League (IPL) who also made his mark in international cricket, has now clarified that his allegiance to the Mumbai Indians franchise, in the ILT20, is the reason behind his unexpected exit.

Having joined the YSR Congress Party on 28 December, Rayudu baffled many by parting ways just nine days later. The 38-year-old took to X where he announced that since he was set to feature in the upcoming ILT20 season in Dubai, scheduled from 20 January, he needed to be politically non-affiliated.

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In his social media post, Rayudu stated, “I, Ambati Rayudu, will be representing the Mumbai Indians in the upcoming ILT20 from Jan 20th in Dubai. Which requires me to be politically non-affiliated whilst playing professional sport.”

I Ambati Rayudu will be representing the Mumbai Indians in the upcoming ILt20 from jan 20th in Dubai. Which requires me to be politically non affiliated whilst playing professional sport.

— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) January 7, 2024

On 28 December last year, Rayudu entered the field of politics as he joined the YSRCP. The right-handed batter had played 61 matches (55 ODIs and 5 T20Is) for the Indian cricket team. “This is to inform everyone that I have decided to quit the YSRCP Party and stay out of politics for a little while. Further action will be conveyed in due course of time. Thank You,” Rayudu had written on social media.

This is to inform everyone that I have decided to quit the YSRCP Party and stay out of politics for a little while. Further action will be conveyed in due course of time.

Thank You.

— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) January 6, 2024

Rayudu, who played a key role in guiding Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their fifth IPL title last year, had left the Mumbai Indians in 2017 during the IPL. Now, he is all set to rejoin the Mumbai Indians for the upcoming ILT20, set to take place at three venues in the UAE — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

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Rayudu was part of the Mumbai Indians side for eight seasons, starting in 2010. During his stint at MI, he clinched three titles with the franchise. Later, he was signed by CSK, where he played a pivotal role until he retired from the IPL in 2023.