We all feel for Ambati Rayudu, says CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons after batsman fails to make WC squad

All eyes were on Ambati Rayudu’s chances of making World Cup squad when the selectors came up with the final announcement on Monday, April 15. The middle-order batsman was being backed as India’s no. 4 batsman in the big tournament for several months but his ordinary outing in 2019 during which he scored just one fifty ruined his chances to make it eventually. The decision came as shocking to many and commentator Harsha Bhogle even said that it could be all but over for the Hyderabad batsman who averages over 47.

Eric Simmons, the bowling coach of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for which Rayudu plays in the IPL, also rued the batsman’s missing the bus. He said that everyone in the team felt bad that Ambati couldn’t seal World Cup spot. “We all feel sad for Rayudu. I haven’t had a chat with him personally yet (after being ignored for World Cup selection). Who would not love to play for India and in the World Cup?” Simmons was quoted as saying by Sportstar.

South African-born Simmons, who was speaking to the media on the eve of the CSK’s next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad, said the decision must have left Rayudu disappointed. The right-handed batter hoped that he would use the hurt feeling to motivate himself as he has done over the years.

“We all feel for him but I am confident that he will continue to give his best,” he said.

Rayudu’s performance in IPL 12 has been mediocre as well

Rayudu’s performance in the IPL this year has also been far from satisfactory. After a terrific season last year when he scored over 600 runs from 16 games at an average of above 43, the 33-year-old batsman has scored only 138 runs from eight games at an average of below 20.

The CSK as a team has though done tremendously this year. Of the eight games they have played so far, the yellow jerseys have won in seven and another two wins will see them qualifying for the playoffs.

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