Sachin Tendulkar thanks Ambati Rayudu for his contribution to Indian cricket

Even at the start of the year, Ambati Rayudu was looking all set for a berth in the World Cup squad. He was being thought about as the answer to India’s number four conundrum. However, fate turned out to be merciless for the Guntur-born cricketer. Owing to some indifferent performances, the right-hander was dropped from playing eleven in an ODI against Australia back in January.

He played a decent hand in New Zealand and got into the squad for India’s home series versus the Aussies in March. Even then he couldn’t make use of the chances, which made the selectors run out of patience. The 33-year-old batter also didn’t find a place in the World Cup squad, much to his disappointment. Thereafter, he took an indirect dig at the selectors for the snub.

During the mega event in England and Wales, India suffered from quite a few injury concerns. In the beginning, Shikhar Dhawan, who scored a ton against the Aussies, was ruled out due to a finger injury. Rishabh Pant was called upon as his cover and then he became his replacement. Meanwhile, the doors remained closed for Rayudu. It was then the turn of Vijay Shankar to get ruled out.

The all-rounder developed a toe injury and the selectors preferred Mayank Agarwal, who has already played a couple of Tests for the national team in Australia. Yet another time, Rayudu didn’t get a call-up. Frustrated by all the developments, the 33-year-old announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. He sent a mail to the concerned officials informing them about the same.

Ambati Rayudu bows out

In his note, Rayudu thanked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Ranji teams he played for- Hyderabad, Baroda, Andhra and Vidarbha. He also expressed his gratitude to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) for their support. In the meantime, former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar thanked Rayudu for his contribution to Indian cricket.

Moreover, he reminisced the ‘fond memories’ he had with Rayudu during the latter’s stint with MI in the IPL. The legendary cricketer took to Twitter and wrote, “Thank you for all your contribution to Indian Cricket, Ambati. Have fond memories of spending time with you during your stint at @mipaltan. Wishing you all the best for your 2nd innings.”

Here is Sachin’s tweet

Thank you for all your contribution to Indian Cricket, Ambati. Have fond memories of spending time with you during your stint at @mipaltan.
Wishing you all the best for your 2nd innings. pic.twitter.com/3ueULd6xPu

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 4, 2019