I have always loved playing for CSK: Ambati Rayudu

Due to adverse weather on Sunday (May 28), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) are squaring off in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on the reserve day (Monday). Notably, this is GT's second consecutive final match in the lucrative league. 

On Sunday, CSK star batter Ambati Rayadu announced his retirement from the IPL, declaring that the title clash between his side and Gujarat will be his final match. He later reflected on his cricketing career, his support system, and his role models as a child.

Rayadu reflected on his cricketing career in a video shared by CSK's official Twitter handle. The 37-year-old stated that he has always loved to play for the four-time champions.

"You love this game, especially playing for CSK. I have always loved playing for CSK," said Rayadu.

Watch the video:

Chennai Super Kings@ChennaiIPL

ATR’s journey in Yellove narrated by the man himself 📹 #WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 @RayuduAmbati

11:29 AM · May 29, 2023

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Rayudu stated that his career as a cricketer began roughly 30 years ago and that the pressure part of the game keeps him going since he enjoys it. The right-hand batter also stated that he has a strong support structure in his family and that his parents have made many sacrifices to allow him to participate in this sport. 

"My cricket started around 30 years ago. There have been a lot of good years and bad years. So it is the journey that is important and the learning you take from it. When you go out to the park, you want to enjoy the fight, you want to enjoy the pressure. It is that aspect that keeps me going.

"My family support system has been really good, especially my parents. They have sacrificed a lot to have me play this sport. After that Vidhya (his wife) came into my life and the support system has always been the backbone. This is where I found my source of strength," he added.

Rayudu then talked about his admiration for the batting of legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, saying, "To watch him bat was a treat. I always enjoyed that."