Ambati Rayudu has made a U-turn and is expected to play for Hyderabad after expressing his desire to come out of a hasty retirement, a decision he had taken nearly two months ago post his World Cup snub.
Rayudu is said to have sent an email to the Hyderabad Cricket Association that his decision to retire was an emotional one and there is “enough cricket left” in him. He added that he was willing to play in all formats of the game.
“I would like to bring to your kind notice that I would like to come out of retirement and play cricket in all formats,” Rayudu wrote to Prof Ratnakar Shetty, a member of the Committee of Administrators overseeing affairs of the HCA.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank Chennai Super Kings, V.V.S. Laxman and Noel David, who have been very supportive during the tough time and are instrumental in making me realise that I have enough cricket left in me and that the decision to retire was taken in an emotional state and haste.
“I am looking forward to a wonderful season ahead with a very talented Hyderabad team and help the team realise its full potential. I will be available from September 10 to join the Hyderabad team.”
Last week, the 33-year-old cricketer expressed his wish to play in the Indian Premier League. He is currently with the Chennai Super Kings.
Chief selector Noel David said that Rayudu “still has five years of cricket” in him.
“It is great news for us. I still believe he still has five years of cricket and groom youngsters which is more important for us. Last year without him, we struggled in Ranji Trophy,” David said.
“Rayudu's class and experience will prove to be very handy for Hyderabad.
“Hopefully he carries on the good work and leads from the front and I am confident of Rayudu getting support from all quarters.”
Rayudu had announced his retirement after he was overlooked in the World Cup. Rayudu, who was in Team India's reserves list, was ignored by selectors as Rishabh Pant and Mayank Agarwal were brought in when Shikhar Dhawan and Vijay Shankar were injured. Both Pant and Agarwal have less experience in ODI cricket.
