Ambati Rayudu discloses motive behind quitting politics

Ambati Rayudu, the former Indian cricketer, announced his association with MI Emirates for the upcoming ILT20 season, citing it as the primary reason for his departure from the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP). Notably, he left the political party on January 6, just eight days after joining.

Upon joining YSRCP, Jagan Mohan Reddy, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, initiated a 45-day sports festival. However, the 38-year-old cricketer, who resigned from the party, initially kept the reason for his decision undisclosed, stating that he was taking a break from politics and would reveal his future plans soon. On Sunday, January 7, he disclosed the explanation behind his exit, expressing his desire to maintain a non-political stance while actively participating in professional sport.

The former Chennai Super Kings batter took to X on Sunday and wrote, "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." 

“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’s tweet after quitting YSRCP read.

Rayudu returns to MI banner after seven years

Ambati Rayudu has had a distinguished cricketing career, particularly in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Andhra Pradesh-born cricketer's IPL journey commenced in 2010 with the five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI), and have won titles in 2013, 2015, and 2017 during his seven-year stint. Now, after seven years, he returns to the MI banner as he embarks on his ILT20 tournament.

Following his stint with MI in the IPL, Rayudu moved to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). He extended his success in the lucrative league by crowning the IPL title in his debut season with the Chennai-based franchise in 2018. Remarkably, he announced his retirement from the IPL following CSK's title-winning campaign in 2023.